Epidurals now standard practice in Dutch hospitals

3 December 2008

THE NETHERLANDS – Women can now demand epidurals while giving birth at any hospital in the Netherlands.

The change is part of new guidelines issued by the national association of gynaecologists, obstetricians and anaesthetists.

Up to now, the Netherlands was one of the few countries where the use of epidurals during labour was not standard practice.

Anaesthetists must be present during the administration of epidurals.

The Netherlands has a culture of natural childbirth and many obstetricians advise women against pain relief.

[Radio Netherlands / Expatica]