[Caudal anaesthesia in obstetrics (author's transl)].

The advantages of caudal anaesthesia in obstetrics far outweigh the few disadvantages. The perinatal mortality of premature infants is reduced under caudal anaesthesia. Breech deliveries are easier under caudal anaesthesia. In these cases regional anaesthesia is considered an obstetrical indication. It is possible to carry out all vaginal and abdominal procedures with this anaesthesia. The elimination of pain during labor and delivery permits a more intensive experience of labor and delivery for the mother under caudal anaesthesia.