Barrier Contraceptives Overview Technically speaking, barrier methods comprise several categories of contraceptive options. They include the common male barrier, the male condom. They also include a variety of female vaginal…
Amenorrhea Overview Amenorrhea is classified as primary or secondary. It is important to remember that it actually is a symptom and not a diagnosis. Primary amenorrhea refers to absence of…
Abnormal Bleeding and Spotting Overview Abnormal bleeding and spotting are on a continuum. Significance varies with age. However, some irregular bleeding and anovulatory bleeding are characteristics of both adolescents and…
Postpartum and Neonatal Overview* *Neonatal Protocols contributed by Elizabeth Hawkins-Walsh. The first trimester of pregnancy is characterized by tremendous physical and emotional changes. So, too, is the postpartum period. Many…
3rd Trimester Overview Third trimester pregnancy complaints are common because of the pressure of the growing fetus on many body organs. Changes in the center of gravity, increasing venous compression,…
2nd Trimester Overview The issue of fetal viability dominates triage concerns during the 2nd trimester of pregnancy. Depending on the practice setting and the proximity to neonatal intensive care facilities,…
1st Trimester Overview The 1st trimester of pregnancy is characterized by overwhelming physical and emotional changes. Numerous physiologic issues surround patient concerns, and complaints are numerous. From a telephone triage…
Prenatal Screening Overview and Tests for Ongoing Fetal Surveillance* *Fetal Assessment and Surveillance Protocols contributed by Sue-Ellen Abney-Roberts. One of the greatest responsibilities and most important of challenges in obstetrics…
Early Management of Unintended Pregnancy Overview Current research indicates that 50% of pregnancies in the United States are unintended. An unintended pregnancy can translate into an unwanted or undesirable pregnancy,…
Preconceptual and Infertility Overview* *Communicable Disease Table contributed by Kevin Barrett. All women who are considering a pregnancy warrant a preconceptual counseling visit. This chapter discusses selected important topics to…
