Analgesia

Abstract

Many methods and agents are available for analgesia in labour. Good antenatal preparation, nursing care, psychological care and physiotherapy together with such manoeuvres as massage of the lumbar region for pain associated with occipito-posterior presentation should all be used, with more specific analgesics when these are needed. As well as choosing the correct drug, route and dose, it is important to time correctly administration of an analgesic. The relief of pain is best offered before the patient actually needs it. It should be given at the earliest indication because of the time delay before the onset of action. For the same reason a repeated dose should be given in anticipation when effectiveness begins to diminish.