Epidural Medication Shortage

Epidural Medication Shortage

 

The Epidural Medication Shortage is a totally unacceptable situation. There is a national shortage of epidural medications which is expected to last until at least March 2026.

This is presently affecting access to pain relief during labour. Clinicians are being asked to prioritise use for those with the greatest clinical need.

Women are warned they may not be able to access epidurals when requested.

Surely there must be a risk assessment and contingency plan in place for when resupply chains fragility is tested like this? Why has this been allowed to happen?

A team of doctors, midwives and pharmacists has looked at all available evidence and the alternative products supplied nationally. As a result, one hospital will be using a slightly different epidural medication bag. They maintain that the the new version remains a safe and effective way to provide pain relief during labour.

They say that the change means there will be a small increase in the amount of local anaesthetic used. In some people, higher doses of local anaesthetic can be linked to a slightly higher chance of temporary muscle weakness or needing assistance during birth, such as forceps or ventouse. However, they seek to reduce these risks as much as possible. Nevertheless assisted births do carry significant risk of injury to the pelvic floor.