> Are epidurals done for the convenience of the doctor during delivery?
Somewhat, also for convenience and comfort of woman in labor and staff
caring for her.  Epidural pt is easier for staff to care for.

> Does this result in a larger insurance reimbursement to the doctor?
Not for OB, but epidurals have become a steady cash cow for
anesthesiologists, whether MD or RN

> would it be insanity to do so?
Certainly would be insanity to do so, mother animal wouldn't be able to
care for her young and nurse which is all important to animal's ultimate
survival!

>than the nerve it was to hit.
An epidural does not hit a nerve!  It is injected into the  epidural space
and the drug bathes the nerves and creates the anesthesia.

Sincerely, Pat in SNJ

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