General Considerations

Abstract

Currently, many methods are available to provide relief of childbirth pain, including psychologic techniques and a great variety of drugs used for regional or general anesthesia. The methods used vary from one area to another and from one country to another depending upon the culture, medical personnel available, facilities and many other sociological and professional factors. The many agents and techniques which are being used can arbitrarily be included in four categories which are summarized in Table 2. The technique of administering each of these methods are described in the next four chapters. It deserves re-emphasis that each of these methods have their own specific indications and that the advantages, disadvantages and limitations of each method varies under different conditions. Proper application requires that the anesthetist and/or physician delivering the patient fully appreciate these.