Health expert Teddy Mulenga has encouraged women to embrace the newly introduced labour pain-relief procedure, assuring the public that it does not pose serious health complications.
The epidural anaesthesia procedure, which was recently introduced at the University Teaching Hospital on January 12, 2026, has so far recorded 10 successful cases. The procedure involves administering medication near the spinal nerves to relieve labour pain while allowing the mother to remain awake and alert. Despite its success, the introduction of the procedure has raised public concern over possible complications.
However, speaking in an interview with RCV News in Lusaka, Dr. Mulenga explained that epidural anaesthesia, like any medical procedure, may have manageable side effects such as migraines.
“There are many misconceptions surrounding this procedure that need to be clarified,” Dr. Mulenga said.
He emphasized that health professionals thoroughly assess both the risks and benefits before introducing any medical procedure, assuring the public that the epidural anaesthesia is safe.
Dr. Mulenga further urged women to welcome this development, noting that reduced labour pain can contribute to fewer health complications, further, expressing hope that the cost of the procedure would be affordable and accessible to women from all socio-economic backgrounds.
He has further called on the media to play a role in raising awareness by providing accurate information, while encouraging women to seek guidance from qualified medical practitioners to address any concerns or misconceptions.