Noelle,
We use intrathecals in our hospital and I have been looking for the problems
with nipple edema that has been discussed on lactnet.  We dooooo have our
share of flat nipples and sleepy babies....they still get the drugs....but I
haven't observed the dramatic problems that the hospitals with epidurals
describe.  This is not scientific of course, but usually intrathecals are
given in active labor (3-5 cm) and no bolus of fluids.  The side affects of
intrathecals are a problem.  Lots of nausea/vomiting/itching..but "drugs are
us" comes to the rescue and the moms love the intrathecals regardless, oh
well thats another story.

Linda Rosetti RN,IBCLC
Clarkston, Wa