Health secretary to investigate reports of women denied epidural pain relief during childbirth

The health secretary Matt Hancock is to investigate allegations that some women are being denied pain-relieving epidurals during childbirth by NHS trusts.

Current NHS guidelines state that pain relief during labour can be requested at any time and that women should be given support and information to choose what is right for them.

Although epidural blocks are highly effective, they need to be administered by an anaesthetist in an obstetric unit. Close monitoring is important as they can lead to a drop in blood pressure in up to 14% of women.

Some women have claimed that they are being denied epidurals because a “a cult of natural childbirth” in six hospital trusts. A number claimed they were informed that they were either too far dilated or insufficiently dilated to have the procedure.

The trusts, which included Surrey and Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust; University Hospitals of Leicester Trust, Homerton University Hospital Trust in London; and Western Sussex Hospitals NHS Foundaton Trust, all said they endeavoured to comply with NICE guidelines and provide pain relief in a timely manner.

Mr Hancock said in a statement “I want all expectant mothers to be able to make an informed choice that’s right for them, to know this choice will be fully respected and to have the freedom to change their mind.

“Clinical guidance clearly states that you can ask for pain relief at any time – before and during labour – and as long as it is safe to do so this should never be refused. I’m concerned by evidence that such requests are being denied for anything other than a clinical reason.

“It’s vital this guidance is being followed right across the NHS, as part of making it the best place in the world to give birth. Women being denied pain relief is wrong, and we will be investigating.”

Chadwick Lawrence’s specialist team of clinical negligence lawyers have years of experience in medical negligence claims, providing support and guidance after life-changing events. Not only do we represent clients in Yorkshire, but because of our reputation we also represent clients nationally.

If you believe that you or a relative may have been injured as a result of clinical/medical negligence, please call for free legal advice from our medical negligence solicitors on the freephone number below.

Posted by Karen Motley, Clinical Negligence Department, Chadwick Lawrence LLP (tonymay@chadlaw.co.uk ), medical negligence lawyers and clinical negligence solicitors in Huddersfield, Leeds, Wakefield and Halifax, West Yorkshire.

Freephone : 0800 304 738