Maternal-Fetal Toxicology: A Clinicians' Guide

Maternal-Fetal Toxicology answers many questions about the potential reproductive effects of exposure to possible teratogens. It presents current estimates of the risks of exposure to drugs, chemicals, viruses, and radiation. The book also describes teratogen information programs and details the process of counseling at one such program. In addition, readers are told how to obtain further information. The volume is organized into four parts plus an index. Part I, "Drugs in Pregnancy," discusses changes in pharmacokinetics which occur in pregnant women and the safest drug options during pregnancy. It also includes a chapter on drugs and breastfeeding. The next section, "Poisoning and Radiation in Pregnancy," includes information on occupational exposure to chemicals and discusses syndromes of neonatal drug withdrawal. The third part, "Genetic and Obstetric Considerations," comments on maternal disorders leading to increased reproductive risks. Information about sonographic visualization of fetal malformations also appears in this section. Part IV, "Organizations and Operation of Teratogen Information Services," gives addresses and phone numbers of such services and discusses the counseling, epidemiological research opportunities, and legal protection they may provide. Also, a selection of useful and/or popular information resources are critiqued. Finally, a timely chapter on teratogenicity and litigation is included. Many pregnant women have questions about the teratogenic risks of various environmental factors to which they are exposed during pregnancy. This book is a useful guide which will enable health professionals to respond to these concerns. Clearly written, filled with convenient charts and a thorough index, this guide is recommended for obstetricians, family and general practitioners, nurses, midwives, geneticists, and anyone else involved in issues of prenatal development.