This book offers an in-depth examination of labor pain and analgesia with the aim of promoting
natural childbirth without pain. All aspects of the subject are covered including the latest
techniques of delivering labor analgesia. Importantly emphasis is placed on a holistic
approach detailed attention being paid to the humanization of childbirth and behavioral
aspects in addition to evidence-based medicine. Potential future developments are also
addressed with discussion of opportunities that have yet to be realized. In order to ensure
that the text is easily readable for trainees as well as established practitioners chapters
have been restricted to a manageable length and information is presented clearly and
succinctly. Step-by-step tutorials and boxes highlighting practical points are used to clarify
technical aspects. The authors include both well-established experts and young emerging
professionals from various European countries ensuring an intercultural perspective.
