BJOG : an international journal of obstetrics and gynaecology
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The morphology of the fetal ECG complex provides information on the fetal condition during labour, such as the ST segment and T-wave configuration. We hypothesised that the intrapartum fetal QT interval may provide additional information on the condition of the fetus, as it is known that the QT interval reacts to situations of stress and exercise. ⋯ In intrapartum hypoxia, resulting in metabolic acidosis, a significant shortening of the fetal QT and QTc is present, irrespective of changes in heart rate. In control cases, this shortening does not occur. The intrapartum fetal QT interval may therefore provide additional information on the condition of the fetus.
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Randomized Controlled Trial Clinical Trial
A double blinded randomised placebo-controlled study of intramuscular pethidine for pain relief in the first stage of labour.
It has recently been suggested that systemic pethidine is ineffective in relieving labour pain. This study aims to evaluate the analgesic efficacy of pethidine in labour. ⋯ Systemic pethidine was more effective at relieving labour pain than placebo. Its analgesic effect, however, was modest.
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Multicenter Study
Quantifying severe maternal morbidity: a Scottish population study.
To quantify the incidence of severe maternal morbidity in Scotland and determine the feasibility of doing so. ⋯ Categories of severe maternal morbidity can be defined and may provide a useful measure of the quality of maternity services, particularly in developed countries where maternal mortality is very rare. It appears feasible to set up a national reporting system for maternal morbidity, as well as mortality.
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To describe the prevalence, severity, course and predictive factors of primary dysmenorrhoea in women of all reproductive ages. ⋯ Primary dysmenorrhoea affects most women throughout the menstrual years. Dysmenorrhoea severe enough to cause absence from work occurs in less than 5% of women. Although improvement and worsening are equally likely for all women, improvement is more likely in women who bear children.