Epidural and other labor analgesic methods.
This article focuses on methods of pain relief during labor, reviewing the current state of the art including risks and benefits. Regional techniques such as epidural or combined spinal/epidural techniques are discussed. A limited review of the effects of epidural analgesia on labor and delivery is presented. Other pharmacologic methods for labor pain relief are discussed including intravenous narcotics, paracervical block and inhalational analgesia. The following nonpharmacologic methods are also discussed: hypnosis, supportive care, transcutaneous electronic nerve stimulation (TENS), acupuncture/acupressure, subcutaneous water blocks and hydrotherapy.
Journal Article↗