[Obstetric anesthesia: from historical perspective to current practice--preface and comments].

Serious social problems related to obstetric care (labor and delivery) have become the recent hot topic in Japan. The news media are reporting full of stories and articles on shortage of obstetricians because of long-hour duty and high stress at hospitals. Because we have been involved in obstetric anesthesia over years and the level of demand is increasing from the society, appreciation of the current roles of anesthesiologists in obstetric care is particularly important. In this special issue, important basic items are covered by each article from historical perspectives to current practice standards. Establishing the system for team approach through communication among obstetrician, anesthesiologist, pediatrician, and nurse will facilitate high quality and safety level of care for the mother and child.