Childbirth, Medication in

Childbirth is a central theme in the lives of women and the use of medication or lack thereof in the birthing process is a political, economic, medical, and personal issue for women. There are various kinds of medications used during the birthing process. Research has revealed that the use of medication in childbirth has both positive and negative effects on both the birthing woman and the unborn child. Women have adopted multiple behaviors and practices to avoid or lessen the use of medication during the childbirth process. Philosophies about the use of medication in the birthing process vary among individuals.