Acta anaesthesiologica Scandinavica
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Acta Anaesthesiol Scand · Oct 2024
ReviewPatient controlled epidural analgesia during labor: Protocol for a scoping review.
Childbirth remains one of the most painful experiences for women. Patient-controlled epidural analgesia provides the women in labor with self-control and thereby a shorter time interval between onset of pain and administration of analgesia, thus potentially improving the childbirth experience. This scoping review aims to investigate PCEA during labor involving maternal satisfaction, risks of adverse effects and obstetric interventions by mapping the evidence and identifying gaps in the current evidence base. ⋯ PCEA offers women greater autonomy during childbirth, making it essential to examine its effects and potential risks. By mapping current evidence regarding PCEA, this review aims to identify knowledge gaps and provide insights to enhance maternal care and improve childbirth experiences.