Midwives’ knowledge of side effects of epidurals compared to risk quoted in current guidance
| Side Effect | Number of midwifes who knew this as a side effect (%) | Actual risk |
|---|---|---|
| Failure | 20 (74%) | 1 in 8 |
| Long-term backache | 5 (18.5%) | No increased risk |
| Increased risk of assisted delivery | 26 (96.3%) | 1 in 7 |
| Temporary sensory loss | 15 (55.5%) | 1 in 1000 |
| Increased risk of caesarean section | 10 (37%) | No increased risk |
| Epidural abscess | 9 (33.3%) | 1 in 50 000 |
| Adverse effects on baby | 4 (14.8%) | No direct risk to baby |