Epidural and birth injuries: new study of 8,500 births seeks clarity
NCT ID NCT07255014
First seen Jun 27, 2026 ยท Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study analyzed medical records from over 8,500 vaginal deliveries to see if having an epidural increases the chance of genital tract injuries like tears or episiotomies. Researchers also looked at whether epidurals are linked to the use of forceps or labor induction. The goal is to settle a long-standing debate and help guide safer childbirth practices.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only, not medical advice or a prediction.
- What this could lead to
- If the results clarify the link between epidurals and birth injuries, this could help doctors and expectant mothers make more informed decisions about pain relief during labor.
- What could go wrong
- This is an observational study using past medical records, so it can only show associations, not cause and effect. The findings may not apply to all hospitals or birthing practices.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Study facts
What this study's own registry entry says, in plain language.
- Participants
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8,516 people
The number who actually took part.
- Started
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Dec 2024
- Finished
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May 2025
- Lead sponsor
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Other sponsor
The registry's catch-all category, for sponsors it does not file as a company, a government agency, or a research network.
Who can take part
This study's own entry requirements. Only the study team can say for certain whether you qualify.
Who is studied
Women giving birth by vaginal delivery within the CHU Brugmann Hospital, from January 1 2020 till December 31 2002
- Ages
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18 years and older
- Sex
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Female participants only
- Healthy volunteers
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Not accepted
This study is not open to healthy volunteers. The entry requirements below say who it is open to.
Show the full entry requirements Hide the full entry requirements
Copied word for word from the study's registry entry, so the wording is the study team's rather than ours.
Inclusion Criteria: Vaginal delivery within the CHU Brugmann Hospital, from January 1 2020 till December 31 2002 Exclusion Criteria: * Incomplete medical files * Delivery before 25 weeks of pregnancy * Out of Hospital delivery * Medical termination of pregnancy (MTP) * Cesarean delivery
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As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
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CHU Brugmann
Brussels, 1020, Belgium