Some years ago two German Physicians, Kroenig and Grauss, of the
University of Baden, startled the world by announcing: "Dammerschlaf"
or "Twilight Sleep," a treatment which rendered childbirth almost
painless and free from dangerous complications. A woman's clinic
was established at Freiburg where a combination of scopolamine and
morphine was given. The muscular activity of the pelvic organs was
not lessened, the length of labor was shortened, and instruments were
rarely necessary.
ABBOTT'S H-M-C is another sedative composed of hyoseine, morphine, and
cactoid. It is less dangerous than the other remedy, and accomplishes
the same result, hence is greatly preferred.
THE UTMOST CAUTION is necessary in the administration of either of
these drugs, and the most competent medical supervision is essential
to their success.
CAUTIONS.--The patient should not be left a moment without medical
supervision. The lying in chamber should be darkened, and kept as
quiet as possible.
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