Analgesia and anaesthesia in childbirth: obscurantism and obfuscation.
The terms 'analgesia' and 'anaesthesia' have been defined by emphasizing differing aspects of their effects. The distinction between these interventions has not been clarified by their definitions. The historical remedies for pain were similarly unclear. This lack of clarity is apparent in the introduction of chloroform in childbirth, which has much in common with the introduction and effects of epidural analgesia. The reasons for and benefits of this lack of clarity are examined.
Department of Nursing Studies, University of Edinburgh, Scotland.
R
R
Mander
D015360:Analgesia, Epidural / Q000266:history; D016362:Analgesia, Obstetrical / Q000266:history*; D000773:Anesthesia, Obstetrical / Q000266:history*; D002725:Chloroform / Q000266:history; D005260:Female; D049672:History, 19th Century; D049673:History, 20th Century; D006801:Humans; D007743:Labor, Obstetric; D010146:Pain / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000266:history; D011247:Pregnancy; D009626:Terminology as Topic
D002725:Chloroform