Anesthesia and Analgesia for the Obese Parturient

Abstract

Obesity is a worldwide epidemic and is associated with an increased risk of hypertension, diabetes, and obstructive sleep apnea. Pregnant patients with obesity experience a higher risk of maternal and fetal complications. Anesthesia also poses higher risks for obese parturients and may be more technically challenging due to body habitus. Safe anesthesia practice for these patients must take into consideration the unique challenges associated with the combination of pregnancy and obesity.

Keywords: Analgesia; Anesthesia; Cesarean delivery; Labor; Obesity; Pregnancy.