KNOWLEDGE, PERCEPTION, AND UTILIZATION OF OBSTETRIC EPIDURAL ANESTHESIA FOR LABOUR PAIN MANAGEMENT: A RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL AT UNIVERSITY OF CALABAR TEACHING HOSPITAL.

This randomized trial demonstrated that targeted antenatal education significantly improved women's knowledge and perception of epidural anesthesia and promoted its informed utilization. These findings support integrating pain management education into routine antenatal care in Nigeria. These results underscore the need for comprehensive education and counseling strategies to empower pregnant women in making informed decisions about pain management during childbirth, ultimately enhancing their birth experience and satisfaction.The findings highlight the importance of education and counseling in enhancing knowledge, perception, and utilization of obstetric epidural anesthesia among pregnant women. Integrating targeted awareness strategies into antenatal care is essential for addressing misconceptions and optimizing labour pain management, ultimately improving maternal health outcomes.