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Disparities in Obstetric Anesthesia
Mellany Stanislaus1, Allison Lee2
1Anesthesiology & Critical Care Medicine, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA.
Anesthesiology Clinics
|July 30, 2026
Summary
Obstetric anesthesia disparities contribute to maternal health inequities in the US. Addressing these requires institutional and individual strategies to improve care for marginalized populations.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Anesthesiology
- Health Equity
Background:
- Maternal health inequities persist in the United States, with severe maternal morbidity and mortality disproportionately affecting marginalized groups.
- Obstetric anesthesia is critical for labor analgesia, cesarean delivery, postpartum care, and emergency obstetric interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review disparities in obstetric anesthesia.
- To examine the role of anesthesiologists in addressing maternal health inequities.
- To propose actionable strategies and identify research gaps.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of obstetric anesthesia disparities.
- Analysis of anesthesiologist roles in maternal care.
- Synthesis of strategies for institutional and individual change.
Main Results:
- Significant disparities exist in obstetric anesthesia access and quality.
- Anesthesiologists play a vital role in mitigating maternal morbidity and mortality.
- Evidence-based strategies can reduce inequities at multiple levels.
Conclusions:
- Addressing obstetric anesthesia disparities is crucial for improving maternal health outcomes.
- Systemic changes and individual actions are needed to promote equitable obstetric care.
- Further research is required to fully understand and eliminate these inequities.
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