a. General anesthesia produces loss of sensation and loss of consciousness.

It is seldom indicated for uncomplicated vaginal delivery. It is used in cases of fetal distress requiring immediate delivery and used for C-section when spinal anesthesia is contraindicated.

b. The disadvantages are as follows:

(1) The patient is unable to participate.

(2) It rapidly crosses the placenta causing fetal anesthesia, respiratory depression, and possible anoxia (loss of oxygen).

(3) There is increased risk of maternal aspiration — evaluate how recently the patient has eaten.

(4) There is possible hemorrhage since nitrous oxide yields uterine relaxation.