Associations of pain, analgesia technique, and psychological factors with central sensitization after childbirth

doi:10.1016/j.accpm.2026.101881

Obstetric anesthesia

Associations of pain, analgesia technique, and psychological factors with central sensitization after childbirth

Anaesth Crit Care Pain MedPublished 18 Jun 2026Prospective cohort study

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Authors' conclusion

Increased pre-delivery pain and psychological vulnerabilities, and obstetric complications were independently associated with the development of elevated postpartum CSI scores.

Study context

Population: Pregnant women admitted for delivery
Participants: 816 women

Outcome: Elevated CSI scores (Central Sensitization Inventory score ≥50)
Follow-up: 6-10 weeks postpartum

Main finding

As reported in the abstract

Elevated CSI scores and independent associated factors (multivariable analysis)

Adjusted odds ratio (95% CI)P value

Higher pre-delivery EPDS score

1.42(1.15–1.74)

P = 0.001

Higher pre-delivery CSI score

2.50(2.01–3.10)

P < 0.0001

Higher A-LPQ Enormity of pain subscale score

1.24(1.05–1.47)

P = 0.01

Higher FACS pain-related anxiety subscale score

1.26(1.04–1.51)

P = 0.02

Manual removal of the placenta

4.06(1.11–14.82)

P = 0.03

Intrauterine growth restriction

8.90(1.12–70.74)

P = 0.04

Elevated Central Sensitization Inventory (CSI) scores: 401 (49.1%)
Model AUC: 0.79 (95%CI 0.76-0.82)

Observational data: associations, not effects.

Original publication

Associations of pain, analgesia technique, and psychological factors with central sensitization after childbirth. Anaesth Crit Care Pain Med. Published 18 June 2026. doi:10.1016/j.accpm.2026.101881

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