[The effect of epidural analgesia during labour on the blood gases and acid-base balance (author's transl)].

The effect of epidural analgesia on the blood gases and acid-base balance was studied in 20 women during labour and in the newborn. The measurements were taken during the early first stage, the second and forth stage and in the newborns immediately post partum. 20 women in labour who had not been given epidural analgesia served as a control group. The values for the blood gases and the acid balance were less affected in women who had epidural analgesia, but the incidence of deliveries requiring vaginal operations was higher.