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An Experimental Paradigm for the Prediction of Post-Operative Pain PPOP
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Racial and ethnic disparities in postpartum pain: a systematic review
1Garrett Anderson Obstetric Anaesthesia Fellow, University College London Hospitals, London, UK.
International Journal of Obstetric Anesthesia
|July 27, 2025
Summary
Racial and ethnic disparities in postpartum pain assessment and treatment persist. Black and Hispanic patients report higher pain scores and receive less analgesic medication compared to White patients.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Pain Management
- Health Disparities Research
Background:
- Global evidence indicates racial and ethnic disparities in obstetric analgesia and anesthesia.
- Limited data exists on postpartum pain assessment, intensity, and treatment disparities.
- Social determinants of health may influence these complex disparities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review existing literature on racial and ethnic disparities in postpartum pain.
- To examine disparities in pain frequency assessment, severity, and opioid prescribing.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of observational studies.
- Included studies identified from a prior systematic review and supplementary screening.
- Focused on postpartum pain frequency assessment, severity, and opioid prescribing.
Main Results:
- Eight observational studies with 22,259 patients were analyzed.
- Studies conducted in the United States (7) and United Kingdom (1).
- Black and Hispanic patients reported higher pain scores and received less analgesic medication compared to White patients.
Conclusions:
- Racial and ethnic disparities are evident in postpartum pain assessment, intensity, and analgesic prescribing.
- Further research is crucial to understand the underlying structural and institutional factors.
- Development of equitable, patient-centered approaches is needed to minimize these disparities.
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