Anesthesia for reproductive healthcare from start to finish: a narrative review

Abstract

Assisted reproductive techniques, second-trimester abortions, and postpartum tubal sterilizations present anesthesia care teams with unique challenges. These highly time-sensitive procedures have unique physiologic, pharmacologic, and psychosocial considerations. A lack of relevant consensus guidelines on anesthesia care exists to address many of these procedure-specific challenges. Additionally, legal restrictions can limit trainee access to learning opportunities in some geographical areas. The review outlines anesthetic considerations and management for patients undergoing assisted reproductive procedures, second trimester abortions, and postpartum tubal sterilizations. We detail unique barriers and psychosocial considerations and offer suggestions to aid anesthesia care providers in providing safe and compassionate reproductive care.

Keywords: Abortion; Advocacy; Anesthesia; Assisted reproductive techniques; Obstetric anesthesia; Patient-centered care; Postpartum tubal sterilization; Reproductive healthcare.