The pain of labor has been with us since the
Garden of Eden. It seems to be more intense for some than others, possibly
explaining why some need more analgesia than others. Some women seem to be able to control
their pain with breathing, focusing, or relaxing techniques. Others want to be 'knocked
out'. The challenge for the anesthetist is to stop or minimize the pain but not the labor,
and do so in a manner 'SAFE' to both the baby and mother. For the last 25 years or so,
epidural analgesia has become the popular method of pain control with 70-80% of
patients requesting it. Let's look at it a little in these links and discussion-- Also
look at the feedback section--
- Labor Pain Relief
- Allows time for rest
- Reduces hyperventilation and serum catecholamines
- Great for PIH (pregnancy induced hypertension)
- Great for C-sections
- Appreciated by husbands and families
- May enhance 'push-ability'
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