As with every extreme position, there is a string of truth. Here are the facts: Local anesthetics cross the placenta. Local anesthetics are used in epidurals. Some local anesthetic placed into the epidural space will be absorbed into the bloodstream and cross the placenta. The small amount of local anesthetic from a properly placed epidural that is absorbed into the bloodstream and crosses the placenta should not affect the mentation of the baby. The lack of affect on the mentation of the baby is an advantage that regional techniques, such as spinals/epidurals, have over intravenous medications.

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