One of the most severe forms of pain is the pain that a woman experiences during the process of childbirth. On a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the most severe, it is believed to be 8 to 10. In the earlier days, a number of women would die during childbirth and survival was considered as a second lease of life. This belief has however, changed with the advancements in medical science. The delivery has now become an almost painless procedure.

What are its benefits?

• The mother has a painless delivery and is conscious and able to see the process of delivery.
• Blood pressure is better controlled using this procedure.
• Significant relief from the painful experience of childbirth. The pain induces secretion of stress hormones in the mother, which adversely affects both the mother and the child.
• Additional instruments can be used during the delivery if required without the need for additional anesthesia.
• duration of childbirth has been significantly decreased.
• Suitable for patients who have preeclampsia and heart disease
• If required, the procedure can be converted to a cesarean section too, by adding an epidural catheter.

In the following cases, the doctor would advise the mother to go for a painless delivery

• Subsequent births after having had a cesarean section (VBAC – vaginal birth after cesarean)
• People who have previously had prolonged or complicated labor, a painless delivery is easy on both the mother and the child
• When it should be best avoided