To Sue Ann and all -- in my area, Duramorph has been given to moms post
Caesarean delivery for about a year. The moms are actually pain-free for 24
hours, never "zonked" as they were from IV or IM meds. The moms actually are
able to get up in a chair and nurse much sooner than when in post-op pain. I
do question whether the med has any effects on the baby, but wonder if it is
any worse than any of the other post-op meds given (esp IV Morphine on a PCA
-"Patient-controlled analgesia"- pump). The one real problem I see with
Duramorph is that a side effect is severe itching, for which the moms receive
Benadryl. I do see these moms having better success at nursing, as they are
more comfortable for the first 24 hours. Alicia Dermer mentioned to me that
the LC in her hospital has been seeing babies with disorganized such and
questioned the Duramorph...I would be more likely to question the *epidural*
itself, as the Duramorph is usually instilled AFTER the birth. I agree that
more research needs to be done in this and many other areas, which is what is
driving me back to graduate school this fall!! My ultimate goal is to do
clinical research in the lactation field, and am pursuing a degree in
Parent/Child nursing, with a focus on the breastfeeding family. I am
"collecting" ideas that I can pursue as I get to the point of doing my
Master's research!!! All support, suggestions, and ideas greatly appreciated,
at any time!!!
KathyRubin  IBCLC RN BSN and soon to begin working for MSN!