Effect of epidural analgesia on the fetal heart rate

Fetal heart rate (FHR) changes occasionally follow the use of labor epidura ls. Most studies Of the phenomenon have focused on specific techniques, but similar timing and appearance suggest a common cause. Induction of analges ia may transiently alter the balance between factors encouraging and inhibi ting uterine contractions with subsequent changes of FHR patterns. Regardle ss the etiology, these changes are transient and do not produce maternal or fetal morbidity. However, they must be promptly recognized and treated if necessary. (C) 2001 Elsevier Science Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.