So every doc tried to keep up in journals. It's an impossible task.
I skim the Green and Gray journals, but I read the "Throw-aways" cover to cover. Why? Because they are practical and summarize the research for me. Plus the malpractice columns are always interesting reads.
So today I was reading one of the throw-aways (The Female Patient, if you care to know) and there was an opinion piece on elective deliveries. Good research shows that delivering prior to 39 completed weeks increases the chances of neonatal complications. This is well known and trumpeted through OB-dom. Many OBs choose to ignore the evidence, but it is true. It's why I don't do it electively.
I honestly think the idea of elective induction being out in the community is dangerous. Women just think "oh, I'm going to get to have my baby when I chose." But I hate the idea! Sometimes, I wish patients didn't know that we can do it. The problem is, they DO know. And there is pressure.
4 comments:
I can see boutique OB's advertising this on TV, too. "Too busy to have a baby on their schedule? Why not let us work it into yours?"
oh gosh, Dr. Grumpy, that is just so so depressing to think about. i hope women and their doctors think about what is best for the baby
I'll tell you, I had my babies in the early 80's....they didn't even give out the sonogram pics in those days. Natural childbirth with no pain meds....It was still prior to everyone getting to know the sex of the baby before it popped out (I think this was just beginning), there's no surprise like finally finding out if it's a boy or girl....
When I hear about the goings-on these days, it makes me feel like an Amazon Woman!
Wow, I was born at 29 weeks in '81 and can not imagine a mother choosing to have their baby early for any reason. In our family we have always stressed that the baby will come when it is good and ready to come.
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