Maternal Fever, Epidural Analgesia, and Genetics: Implications for the Neonate

Obstetric Anesthesia Digest 2026

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Authors: R.J. Kearns, SM Nelson, DN Lucas
DOI: 10.1097/01.aoa.0001178628.65983.cc
Cited by: 0

Abstract

( Br J Anaesth . 2025;135:9-13. doi: 10.1016/j.bja.2025.04.018.) The editorial discusses the ongoing uncertainty surrounding epidural-related maternal fever (ERMF), a condition affecting 15% to 25% of laboring women who receive epidural analgesia. Although epidurals improve maternal comfort and outcomes, clinicians face difficulty distinguishing ERMF, which may be noninfectious, from fevers caused by infections. This diagnostic ambiguity often results in unnecessary antibiotic use, increased healthcare costs, neonatal interventions, and parental anxiety. Despite its frequency, current evidence does not strongly link ERMF to neonatal harm.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Anesthesia and Pain Management Maternal and Perinatal Health Interventions Thermal Regulation in Medicine

Publication details

Journal / source
Obstetric Anesthesia Digest
Volume
46
Issue
1
Pages
17–17
Publication date
1 March 2026
Language
EN