Publisher's Synopsis
Childbirth is a deeply personal and often painful experience, but pain relief options have evolved significantly since James Young Simpson first introduced ether in the 1840s. The intensity of labour pain varies from woman to woman, with most experiencing severe or even unbearable discomfort. Studies suggest that while childbirth preparation can help to some extent, it does not completely eliminate the pain. According to the National Birthday Trust survey of over 10,000 women in the UK, 93.5% reported experiencing severe or unbearable pain at some point during labour when asked shortly after delivery. Interestingly, this percentage dropped to 65% when they were surveyed again six weeks later. This highlights how pain perception is influenced by both physiological and psychological factors, making each woman's experience unique. This book provides a comprehensive guide to pain management during labour and delivery, covering everything from the physiology of pain to its impact on both mother and baby. It explores various pain relief methods, including both pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches. Whether you're a layperson, student, doctor, or midwife, this book serves as a valuable resource for understanding and managing labour pain effectively