Journal of midwifery & women's health
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Despite the widespread application of standard aseptic techniques during vaginal birth, cesarean birth, and/or termination of pregnancy, postpregnancy infections remain a significant source of maternal morbidity and mortality. Obstetric infection accounts for more than 12% of maternal deaths. ⋯ Infection is estimated to be the second highest cause of under-reported maternal death in the United States. This article identifies measures to aid in primary prevention and recognition of obstetric infections in order to facilitate early diagnosis and treatment.
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J Midwifery Womens Health · Sep 2007
ReviewSexually compulsive/addictive behaviors in women: a women's healthcare issue.
Sexually compulsive/addictive behavior is a pattern of sexual behaviors that cause distress and/or impairment of social functioning. It is marked by obsessive thoughts, compulsive behaviors, and the individual's inability to stop the behaviors despite negative consequences. ⋯ Sexually compulsive/addictive behavior is associated with a number of health consequences, including sexually transmitted infections, unwanted pregnancies, abortions, and violence. It is important for providers to have an understanding of the addiction process, assessment, diagnosis, and interventions for these women.
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J Midwifery Womens Health · May 2007
ReviewBorn too soon: the continuing challenge of preterm labor and birth in the United States.
Prematurity is the single greatest cause of morbidity and mortality in obstetrics. Families, health care services, and education systems experience the impact of prematurity for the lifetime of the preterm-born child. ⋯ To further complicate the situation, new data shows that infants born between 34 and 37 weeks' gestation who were thought to have minimal long-term effects of preterm birth may be more at risk than previously appreciated. This article reviews evidence-based risk identification, prevention, and management of women experiencing preterm labor and birth.
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Management of the third stage of labor has been an issue of discussion, concern, and continued debate for the past two decades. Despite the many strategies employed and the divergent approaches to care and philosophies espoused, there has not been a significant, consistent reduction in the postpartum hemorrhage rates reported in industrialized countries in recent times. This article explores the strategies that have been and are currently being used in an effort to reduce the risk of postpartum hemorrhage.
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J Midwifery Womens Health · May 2006
ReviewAssessment and management of the obese adult female: a clinical update for providers.
Obesity is epidemic in the United States, affecting 61% of adults and 14% of children. Today's health care providers should recognize obesity as a chronic disease and offer up-to-date information and management. Treatment options currently available are diet and behavior modification, medications, and surgical procedures. Implications for clinical practice include recognition of the problems associated with obesity, education of current patients as well as young women who may become patients, and appropriate diagnosis and management or referral.