Single epidural bolus hydromorphone for acute postpartum pain after vaginal delivery: a randomized clinical trial - Scientific Reports

Single Epidural Bolus Hydromorphone for Acute Postpartum Pain after Vaginal Delivery: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Postpartum pain greatly impacts maternal recovery and health, highlighting the importance of effective pain relief methods. This randomized controlled trial involved 460 full-term women after vaginal delivery, divided into two groups. One group (HY, n = 230) received a single epidural bolus of hydromorphone, while the other group (NS, n = 230) received a comparable volume of normal saline.

Within 48 hours after delivery, the women in the hydromorphone group reported significantly lower pain scores compared to those in the saline group (p < 0.05).

“Postpartum pain significantly affects maternal recovery and overall health, underscoring the need for effective analgesic strategies.”

This study supports using a single epidural hydromorphone bolus as an effective option for managing acute postpartum pain following vaginal birth.

Author's summary: A single epidural dose of hydromorphone significantly reduces postpartum pain after vaginal delivery, promoting better maternal recovery and comfort.

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Nature Nature — 2025-11-04

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