Paracervical block with low doses of chloroprocaine. Fetal and maternal effects.

Results of 261 paracervical blocks done with a dose of 12 ml of 1% chloroprocaine hydrochloride solution containing 1:200,000 epinephrine were recorded. The blocks were followed by abnormal heart rate patterns for 3 to 15 minutes in six of 104 (5.8%) of the fetuses. Excellent pain relief was obtained with 142 of 172 blocks or 83%. One fetus died owing to multiple congenital anomalies. Paracervical blocks performed as described are completely safe for the mother and do not affect Apgar scores. Potential fetal risks are acceptable when considered in light of the ease of administration and the amount of pain relief obtained.