Epidural analgesia is indicated in difficult or high-risk labour:

• Pain control
• Prolonged labour
• Occipitoposterior position
• Breech
• Twin pregnancy
• Control of high blood pressure in Pre-eclampsia
• Operative Vaginal Delivery i.e. Forceps
• Repair of perineal and vaginal tears or episiotomy
• Manual removalof placenta 'the after-birth'
• Caesarean section

C. Section performed under epidural or spinal block is associated with a lower maternal mortality owing to anaesthetic factors than under general anaesthetic. 

Low concentration local anaesthetics, opioids, or combinations of both are effective in the control of postoperative caesarean pain. 

Epidural analgesia allows earlier mobilization, reduces the risk of deep venous thrombosis, and allows better breathing effort, preventing chest infections.