Abstract
This paper examines the status of epidural analgesia in childbirth in Japan and discusses its challenges based on the author’s personal experience. In Japan, 505 facilities provide epidural analgesia, representing approximately 26% of all obstetric facilities. The rate of epidural-assisted deliveries was 6.1% in 2016 and 8.6% in 2020, showing a gradual increase. However, this is considerably lower than in Western countries, where 60–80% of deliveries involve epidural analgesia. The author’s personal experience indicated that epidural analgesia significantly reduced labor pain, allowing preservation of maternal physical strength and mental stability. Epidural analgesia may contribute to postpartum care and prevention of postpartum depression. However, economic constraints and limited facility availability prevent many women from accessing this option. To improve maternal care, expanding medical infrastructure and financial support for epidural analgesia nationwide is recommended.
