Exploring how language affects pain perception during epidural anesthesia

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This study investigates whether the wording used by anesthesiologists when describing the epidural procedure can influence patients' pain perception. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either a negative or positive description of the procedure before receiving their epidural. The aim is to determine if a more positive framing can lead to lower pain scores during the administration of the epidural. The study focuses on first-time epidural patients during labor.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* pregnancy
* requesting an epidural for the first time

Exclusion Criteria:

* previous epidural (either for labor or for surgery)
* BMI greater than 40 kg/m\^2
* previous lumbar spine surgery
* inability to speak English
* a history of chronic pain or are on chronic opioids
* a history of opioid drug abuse

Where it's running

• University of Minnesota
  Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Aaron Berg, MD — University of Minnesota
• Study coordinator: Aaron Berg, MD
• Email: bergx831@umn.edu
• Phone: 612-624-9990

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.