“In Vanuatu, we know that many great mothers endure unimaginable pain to bring their children into the world,” he said. “We would like to introduce a technique that can help relieve this pain.”

The method, commonly referred to as “painless delivery” and medically known as labour analgesia, is widely used around the world and is regarded as a key feature of modern maternity care.

Dr Cheng explained that the technique is not new. It has been used globally for more than a century and is now considered both safe and reliable.

“In China, it is already a very mature and widely used practice,” he said.

“In many major hospitals, between 50 and 80 percent of mothers choose painless delivery.”

He added that hundreds of millions of women in China have benefited from the procedure, demonstrating its safety and effectiveness.

The process involves an anaesthesiologist inserting a thin, soft tube into the lower back of the mother, through which a small amount of anaesthetic is administered. The procedure is similar to a simple injection and usually causes only mild discomfort.

“The medicine works by blocking the nerves that transmit pain signals,” Dr Cheng explained.

“It is like turning off a ‘pain switch’.”

Importantly, mothers remain fully awake and aware during labour. While they can still feel contractions, the severe pain is significantly reduced or eliminated, allowing them to stay calm and conserve energy.

Medical professionals highlight several key benefits of painless delivery.

These include effective pain relief, improved ability to rest during labour, and better energy levels for delivery when the time comes.

“Pain can consume a lot of energy,” Dr Cheng said.

“With this method, mothers are able to rest and even eat, helping them maintain the strength needed for childbirth.”

He also emphasised that the technique is safe for both mother and baby.

The dosage of anaesthetic used is minimal—far less than what is required for a caesarean section—and only a very small amount reaches the baby.

In addition, painless delivery may help reduce health risks for mothers with pre-existing conditions such as high blood pressure or heart disease, as it prevents dangerous spikes in blood pressure caused by severe pain.

Dr Cheng noted that most women in labour are suitable candidates for the procedure, including both first-time mothers and those who have previously given birth.

“It is especially helpful for mothers who are sensitive to pain, those who fear childbirth, or those with certain medical conditions,” he said.

However, he stressed that a proper medical assessment is required before the procedure, particularly to rule out issues such as infections or blood clotting disorders.

The CMT hopes to expand awareness and access to this option in Vanuatu, with the aim of improving maternal care and childbirth experiences.

“Let life be born in love,” Dr Cheng said, “and let childbirth become a warm and beautiful memory.”

SOURCE: VANUATU DAILY POST