Epidurals Decrease Breastfeeding

New research from Australia points to the drug fentanyl as a possible culprit in the drop off of breastfeeding rates among women who have had an epidural for labor.

Brand new research conducted by Australian scientists have shown the correlation between epidural usage and having not only breastfeeding problems early in the first few weeks, but a significant drop off even after six months of age. A news report of this study can be found here.

There are numerous ways that we know that epidurals can affect the baby, both directly (by crossing the placenta into the baby's bloodstream) and indirectly (by affecting the health or increasing complications for the mother.) Find out more in my article on the epidurals affect on babies.

This new recearch is compelling in several ways. One is that is draws attention to the specific drug, fentanyl, which is an opiod that has been suspected for years of causing problems for breastfeeding mothers. The other is the long-term aspect of this medication. We are not simply seeing an affect that lasts for a few hours; it somehow manages to affect successful breastfeeding rates for mothers many months later. As a result, researchers recommended that mother who have used an epidural be given more support to counteract the affects of the drug.

What do you think about this issue? Did you find that an epidural made it harder for your baby to breastfeed? Share your thoughts on the discussion forum!

Warmly,

Brenda