A range of new videos about epidural pain relief have been created for patients at an Oxfordshire NHS trust.
The videos have been developed by Oxford University Hospitals (OUH) NHS Foundation Trust in response to feedback gathered from a survey in antenatal clinics.
An epidural is an injection in the back to stop patients from feeling pain, and is often used during labour and childbirth.
The videos aim to provide women with information, reassurance, and confidence to make informed decisions about pain management during labour.
Dr Sally Anne Shiels, consultant anaesthetist at OUH, said: "We know that women often come to labour with a range of questions, concerns, and ideas about epidurals – some of which may be based on outdated or inaccurate information.
"We worked proactively with women through an antenatal survey to ask what they most wanted to know.
"That collaboration has shaped every aspect of these videos – ensuring we cover not just the clinical facts, but the emotional and psychological dimensions in a compassionate, honest way."
The video series addresses common misconceptions and provides clear, evidence-based explanations about epidurals.
The videos will be available on the trust’s social media platforms and website.
Sharon Andrews, head of midwifery at OUH, said: "Women have told us that they want to feel more confident and informed about their pain relief options, and we hope that these resources will help them feel supported and listened to."
