The epidural, between emancipation and norm

Since the feminists' struggles in the 1970s, thanks to the constant progress of medicine, the use of epidurals during childbirth has gradually become part of the French socio-cultural context. Thus, according to a report by the DRESS, the average rate of epidurals in 2010 was 79.3% for all maternities combined. At first glance, this practice seems to meet with the approval of all, both professionals and users of the healthcare system. However, some patients deviate from the current norm by wanting to give birth without an epidural. What are their objectives? How do they put their project into practice? What reactions does this generate on the part of health professionals? The purpose of this thesis is to highlight the issues and tensions surrounding the project of giving birth without an epidural.