Non-neuraxial analgesia in labour

Pain in labour is often described as one of the most severe pains known. Neuraxial techniques provide the most effective form of labour analgesia. However, not all women wish to have a neuraxial technique or indeed want complete pain relief for labour. There are also subgroups of women in whom neuraxial techniques are contraindicated or attempted placement is unsuccessful. Therefore delivery units must be able to offer a range of non-neuraxial analgesia options for labour.