1. Analgesia and anaesthesia in childbirth: obscurantism and obfuscation.
- Author
-
Mander R
- Subjects
- Analgesia, Epidural history, Chloroform history, Female, History, 19th Century, History, 20th Century, Humans, Pain drug therapy, Pain history, Pregnancy, Terminology as Topic, Analgesia, Obstetrical history, Anesthesia, Obstetrical history, Labor, Obstetric
- Abstract
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.
- Published
- 1998
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