The effect of segmental epidural analgesia on maternal growth hormone, insulin, glucose and free fatty acids during labour.

The maternal plasma HGH, insulin, glucose and FFA levels were determined during the course of induced labours in 28 healthy mothers. Every second patient was given segmental epidural analgesia for pain relief during the first stage of labour (epidural) group). The others acted as a control group. HGH did not change significantly during the labour in either group. Insulin decreased during the first stage of labour in both groups. This decrease was more pronounced and statistically almost significant in the control group. Thereafter the insulin increased in both groups. Glucose levels did not change during the first stage, but at the moment of delivery they were significantly higher than the initial levels in both groups. FFA levels became raised in both groups during labour, reaching a peak at the moment of delivery. The results are discussed in relation to stress and effectiveness of pain relief during the first stage of labour.