Former Chief Medical Director of the University College Hospital, Ibadan, Professor Abiodun Ilesanmi, has debunked the long-held belief that labour pain is an inevitable part of womanhood. He explained that advances in medical procedures and technology, such as anaesthesia, have made childbirth less painful and more comfortable.
Speaking at the 11th Scientific Conference of the Society of Obstetric Anaesthetists of Nigeria (SOAN), Ilesanmi highlighted that modern techniques, including non-pharmacological methods like patient education, breathing exercises, and acupuncture, have revolutionised obstetric care. He also advocated for the introduction of these methods in rural areas and low-resource settings like Nigeria.
Keynote speaker Professor Bukola Adesina, an obstetrician and gynaecologist, focused on maternal mortality, stressing the importance of early warning systems to detect complications during childbirth. She urged for stronger healthcare systems to prevent avoidable maternal deaths.
SOAN President, Professor Elizabeth Ogboli-Nwasor, emphasised the association’s dedication to improving patient safety and advancing anaesthesia practices for the benefit of mothers and their children before, during, and after delivery.
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