What about anaesthesia during pregnancy?
Anaesthesia during pregnancy means the use of anaesthesia techniques during surgery or other medical operations during pregnancy. Due to the biological characteristics of the pregnant woman and the special needs of the foetus, anaesthesia during pregnancy is unique, requiring that the anesthesiologist be particularly careful in its execution. The following are the main features and concerns of anaesthesia during pregnancy. 1. Characteristics of anaesthesia during pregnancy 1. Effects of physiological changes: – Cardiovascular system: During pregnancy, the blood capacity of pregnant women increases, the heart rate increases and the heart output increases. These changes may affect the distribution and effects of narcotic drugs. Respiratory system: Reduced respiratory resistance of women during pregnancy and possible stress on their lung activity, leading to a decrease in air flux, thus requiring special attention to respiratory management during anaesthesia. – Metabolism change: Increased metabolic rates for pregnant women, especially changes in liver and kidney functions, may affect metabolic and excretion of narcotic drugs. 2. Feetal safety: – Anaesthesia may affect the foetus through placenta, and its potential effects on the foetus must therefore be considered in the choice of anaesthesia. Especially in the early stages of pregnancy, during critical periods of fetal organ development, the use of drugs harmful to the foetus needs to be avoided. 3. Choice of anaesthesia methods: – Depending on the type of operation and the specific situation of the pregnant woman, the doctor must choose the appropriate anaesthesia method. Common anesthesia methods include local anesthesia, general anesthesia, spinal anesthesia and epidural anesthesia. Each approach has its application and risks. Pre-operative assessment of anaesthesia during pregnancy: – Before an anaesthesia is performed, a doctor shall make a comprehensive assessment of the health status of the pregnant woman, including pregnancy week, history of past illness, conjunction and complications during pregnancy (e.g. high blood pressure during pregnancy, diabetes). An understanding of the specific situation of pregnant women helps to develop individualized anesthesia programmes. 2. Selection of appropriate narcotic drugs: – Anesthetists need to be careful to select narcotic drugs and to avoid the use of substances with potential foetal toxicity. Some of the narcotic drugs, such as some anaesthesia and antibiotics, are not yet safe during pregnancy and require careful use. 3. Monitoring and management: – In the process of anaesthesia, there is a need for continuous monitoring of the vital signs, foetal rates, etc. of pregnant women to ensure the safety of mothers and children. Monitoring of the mother ‘ s respiratory and circulatory system is essential, especially in cases of general or vertebrate anesthesia. Post-operative care: The recovery of pregnant women after anaesthesia during pregnancy also requires special attention. The metabolic and excretion of narcotic drugs may be affected by physiological changes during pregnancy, and it is necessary to ensure that pregnant women receive appropriate post-operative pain management and care. 5. Psychological support: – Women during pregnancy may become anxious about anaesthesia and surgery, provide psychological support and provide detailed pre-operative statements that help to alleviate their concerns. Anaesthesia in different stages of pregnancy 1. Early pregnancy (1-12 weeks): – Early pregnancy is a critical period in the development of the organs of the foetus and unnecessary anaesthesia is avoided as much as possible. If surgery is necessary, the most safe method of anesthesia for the foetus must be chosen. 2. Mid-pregnancy (13-27 weeks): – At a time when the development of the foetus is relatively stable, the appropriate anesthesia can be selected if the operation is required. Anesthesiologists need to take care of the position of the pregnant woman and avoid oppressing the lower cavity, which affects the blood flow back. 3. Late pregnancy (28 weeks and above): – The biological changes in pregnant women in late pregnancy are evident, especially the effects of weight gain and uterine contraction. Anaesthesia takes into account the position of the pregnant woman, and it is usually recommended that the left side be placed in order to alleviate the pressure on the foetus. Summarizing anaesthesia during pregnancy is a complex process that requires careful treatment. Anesthetists must take into account the physiological characteristics of pregnant women, the need for surgery and the safety of the foetus when choosing an anaesthesia method and medication. The health and safety of mother and child can be best ensured through adequate pre-operative assessment, reasonable anaesthesia options, rigorous monitoring and professional after-operative care. In the case of pregnant women, knowledge of anaesthesia during pregnancy helps to alleviate their anxiety and enhances confidence in surgery and the process of anaesthesia.
