By Isaac Okoro
LAGOS, Nigeria – More seasoned gynecologists are urging a shift in maternity care, advocating for pain relief during Labour to be a routine practice. Experts argue that childbirth should not be perceived as a punishment for women and that accessible, professionally administered pain management can significantly improve maternal and infant health outcomes.
Speaking with PUNCH Healthwise, Professor Chris Aimakhu, a Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the University of Ibadan, Oyo State, emphasized that Labour should not be an excruciating process, especially given the wide availability of pain relief options. He attributed the persistence of severe pain in Labour to outdated practices and beliefs still held by some hospitals and communities.
“When women are in Labour, Labour shouldn’t be a painful process,” Professor Aimakhu stated. He explained that options like epidurals and analgesic injections are readily available in many good hospitals in Nigeria and abroad, allowing women to experience a more peaceful and less traumatic Labour. “The idea is that when the woman starts Labour, she shouldn’t be having pain because Labour is like a continuous thing and the pain gets stronger and stronger.”
The gynecologists highlighted the benefits of pain relief, including reduced maternal stress, lower risks to babies, and the prevention of postnatal depression among new mothers. They stressed that with proper administration and timing, pain relief options can be safely utilized without compromising the health of the baby.
Dr. Ayodele Ademola, a Consultant Gynecologist and Medical Director of Strong Tower Hospital, echoed these sentiments, emphasizing that “there is absolutely nothing wrong with relieving pain during Labour. In fact, it’s desirable, but it should be done by professionals in such a way that it will not affect the nature or health of the baby.”
Dr. Ademola cautioned that timing is crucial, particularly with analgesic injections that can depress the baby’s respiratory system if administered too late in Labour. He also highlighted the availability of self-administered inhalation reliefs, although these are not commonly accessible in Nigeria.
Both experts acknowledged the limitations in access to epidurals due to a shortage of trained anesthetists in the country. However, they stressed the importance of pre-delivery counselling for women interested in epidural options, ensuring they can consult with an anesthetist and make informed decisions.
Furthermore, the gynecologists called for a change in the cultural mindset surrounding pain in childbirth, arguing that the belief that Labour pain is natural and must be endured is outdated and not medically sound.
“The belief that Labour pain is natural and must be endured is not tenable. It is not encouraged, except in societies where people believe women should suffer,” Dr. Ademola explained. “In fact, we also know that sometimes, the pain of Labour and other negative experiences can lead to what we call postnatal depression.”
The experts concluded that preventing unnecessary suffering during childbirth is an integral part of holistic maternal care. They urge healthcare providers and communities to embrace modern pain relief options and ensure that women are not denied safe and effective methods of pain management due to cultural beliefs or resource limitations.
