title: Obstetric analgesia.
abstract: Several analgesic options are available for patients during labor. Selection of the appropriate technique must be individualized. Education and preparation begins during prenatal care. If medications are to be used, the risks and benefits to the mother and infant must be considered. Continued patient-doctor communication throughout labor is essential. Patient preferences, tempered by sound medical judgement, should guide the selection of the optimal modality for pain control during labor.
authors.affiliation: Department of Family Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD 20814, USA. mstephens@usuhs.mil
authors.forename: M B
authors.initials: MB
authors.lastname: Stephens
authors.forename: L A
authors.initials: LA
authors.lastname: Fenton
authors.forename: S A
authors.initials: SA
authors.lastname: Fields
mesh_terms: D015360:Analgesia, Epidural / Q000379:methods; D016362:Analgesia, Obstetrical / Q000266:history; D000701:Analgesics, Opioid / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000758:Anesthesia / Q000379:methods; D005260:Female; D049672:History, 19th Century; D049673:History, 20th Century; D006801:Humans; D009407:Nerve Block / Q000379:methods; D010146:Pain / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000503:physiopathology; D059408:Pain Management; D011247:Pregnancy
chemical_list: D000701:Analgesics, Opioid