Background: Epidural analgesia is a safe and effective option for pain management during labour, providing women with the opportunity for a positive birthing experience without substantially altering the mode of delivery. This comprehensive study aimed to investigate the effect of epidural analgesia on the mode of delivery in pregnant women. Methods: A prospective interventional study was conducted in collaboration with the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology and the Department of Anaesthesiology at Dr. RPGMC Kangra at Tanda. The study included 60 women in the early active phase of labour, with 30 women in the Epidural group (Group 1) and 30 women in the Non-epidural group (Group 2). Demographic characteristics, including age, booking status, residence, education status and socioeconomic status, were recorded. The mode of delivery, including normal vaginal, instrumental vaginal and emergency caesarean section, was analyzed. Indications for operative vaginal delivery and caesarean delivery were also assessed. Results: The mean age of participants in Group 1 was 25.13±3.62 years, while in Group 2, it was 25.33±3.25 years. The majority of women in both groups were between 20-25 years old. The study found no significant differences in demographic characteristics between the two groups. The rates of normal vaginal delivery were 70.0% in Group 1 and 76.67% in Group 2, with comparable rates of instrumental vaginal delivery and emergency caesarean section. Indications for operative vaginal delivery and caesarean section were similar between the two groups. Conclusion: The use of epidural analgesia for pain relief during labour did not significantly affect the mode of delivery. The study findings contribute to dispelling misconceptions about epidural analgesia and its association with increased rates of operative deliveries.

Background: Menopause is a natural biological event marking the end of a woman's reproductive years. Limited research exists regarding the familiarity with postmenopausal symptoms and care among women in Himachal Pradesh, India. Addressing women's healthcare needs during this phase is crucial for improved well-being and quality of life. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among women attending the outpatient department of Civil Hospital Theog, Himachal Pradesh. Convenience sampling was used to select 400 participants aged 18 years and above. A structured questionnaire assessed knowledge regarding postmenopausal symptoms and care. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: Of the participants, 26.75% had very good knowledge, 38% had good knowledge, 20.75% had fair knowledge and 14.5% had poor knowledge regarding postmenopausal symptoms and care. Areas of better understanding included defining menopause and its age range, common physical symptoms and sexual health impacts. Limited knowledge was observed regarding hormone fluctuations, differentiation between perimenopause and postmenopause and risks associated with hormone replacement therapy. Conclusion: The study highlights the need for targeted educational interventions to enhance women's knowledge of postmenopausal symptoms and care. Improving understanding of hormonal aspects, self-management strategies and treatment options can lead to better healthcare outcomes. Healthcare providers and policymakers should design culturally appropriate interventions to support menopausal women in Himachal Pradesh, thus enhancing their well-being.