Disparities in Obstetric Anesthesia: An Urgent Call for Action

Anaesthesia . 2025 Jul;80(7):744–747. doi: 10.1111/anae.16618. Significant maternal health disparities exist in the United Kingdom. Ethnic minority groups face higher risks of negative outcomes like postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), stillbirth, mortality, and early delivery, in addition to poor care experiences, feeling a lack of support, and communication issues. There are also differences in neuraxial techniques for labor analgesia and cesarean deliveries among Black, Asian, and socio-economically deprived women, as documented in cohort studies in England and Scotland. This is concerning, given the protective benefits of neuraxial analgesia against severe maternal complications. NHS England’s 3-year delivery plan and new initiatives like the National Institute for Health and Care Research Maternity Disparities Consortium have recognized the urgency of addressing these issues and are taking steps to improve care.