Epidural and intrathecal administration of opioids in obstetrics.

Intraspinal epidural or intrathecal injection of opiates can provide outstanding analgesia in obstetric patients. Epidural and intrathecal opiates may afford more prolonged analgesia without interference of neuromuscular function or depression of the sympathetic nervous system that can occur with other anesthetic regimens. However, certain precautions are recommended to minimize potential side effects.