Labor And Delivery Research Topics

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Labor and Delivery Research Topics: Unveiling the Mysteries of Childbirth



Introduction:

The miracle of childbirth, while universally celebrated, remains a fascinating area of ongoing research. From the physiological processes involved to the psychological impact on mothers and families, labor and delivery offer a rich tapestry of unanswered questions and exciting research opportunities. This comprehensive guide dives deep into compelling labor and delivery research topics, providing insights into current areas of investigation and potential avenues for future study. Whether you're a seasoned researcher, a student exploring dissertation ideas, or simply a curious individual intrigued by the complexities of birth, this article will illuminate some of the most promising and impactful research areas in this dynamic field. We'll cover everything from pain management strategies to the long-term effects of birth experiences, providing a roadmap to navigate this crucial area of healthcare.

I. Physiological Aspects of Labor and Delivery:

A. The Role of Hormones in Labor Onset and Progression: Research continues to explore the intricate interplay of hormones like oxytocin, prostaglandins, and cortisol in initiating and regulating labor. Investigating the precise mechanisms by which these hormones interact and influence uterine contractions holds significant promise for developing more effective interventions for both spontaneous and induced labor. Further research could focus on personalized hormone profiles to predict labor onset more accurately or develop targeted hormonal therapies to optimize labor progression.

B. The Impact of Maternal Physiology on Labor Outcomes: Maternal factors such as age, body mass index (BMI), pre-existing conditions (e.g., diabetes, hypertension), and nutritional status significantly influence labor and delivery outcomes. Studies investigating the complex interplay between these maternal factors and labor complications, such as prolonged labor, postpartum hemorrhage, or Cesarean delivery, are crucial for developing preventative strategies and improving maternal and neonatal health.

C. The Mechanics of Uterine Contractions and Cervical Dilation: A deeper understanding of the biomechanics of uterine contractions and cervical dilation remains a key area of research. Advanced imaging techniques and computational modeling can be utilized to visualize and quantify these processes, leading to a more precise understanding of the forces involved and the potential for developing interventions to improve labor efficiency and reduce complications.

II. Psychological and Social Aspects of Labor and Delivery:

A. The Impact of Anxiety and Stress on Labor: The psychological state of the mother during labor significantly impacts labor progression and the overall birthing experience. Research focusing on the mechanisms by which anxiety and stress affect labor physiology, pain perception, and postpartum mood is critical. This area offers opportunities to explore interventions such as mindfulness, relaxation techniques, and social support to mitigate negative psychological impacts on labor.

B. The Role of Social Support in Labor and Delivery: The presence and quality of social support during labor significantly influence the mother's experience and overall outcomes. Research focusing on the specific types of support most beneficial (e.g., doula support, partner support, family support) and the mechanisms by which social support exerts its positive effects is crucial.

C. Postpartum Mental Health: The Long-Term Impact of Birth Experiences: The postpartum period presents a heightened risk for mental health issues, such as postpartum depression and anxiety. Research needs to focus on identifying risk factors for these conditions, exploring the long-term effects of different birthing experiences (e.g., vaginal delivery versus Cesarean section, natural childbirth versus medicated childbirth) on postpartum mental health, and developing effective prevention and treatment strategies.

III. Technological Advancements in Labor and Delivery:

A. Non-Pharmacological Pain Management Techniques: Exploring and refining non-pharmacological pain management strategies, such as water immersion, acupuncture, TENS units, and hypnobirthing, is crucial for providing women with a wider range of choices for managing labor pain. Research comparing the effectiveness of these techniques and identifying factors predicting their success is essential.

B. The Role of Telemedicine and Remote Monitoring in Labor: Telemedicine and remote monitoring technologies offer the potential to improve access to care, especially for women in rural or underserved areas. Research is needed to assess the efficacy and safety of these technologies in managing labor and identifying potential challenges and limitations.

C. Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in Labor and Delivery: The application of AI and machine learning algorithms to analyze labor data (e.g., fetal heart rate monitoring, uterine contraction patterns) holds significant promise for improving prediction of complications, optimizing management strategies, and personalizing care.

IV. Ethical Considerations in Labor and Delivery Research:

Informed consent, data privacy, and equitable access to research opportunities are paramount ethical considerations in labor and delivery research. Research ethics boards and Institutional Review Boards (IRBs) play a crucial role in ensuring the ethical conduct of research studies. Studies focusing on ethical challenges and best practices in labor and delivery research are critical for ensuring that research is conducted responsibly and benefits all stakeholders.


Research Project Outline: The Impact of Social Support on Postpartum Depression

Introduction: Overview of postpartum depression (PPD), the significance of social support, and the research question.
Chapter 1: Literature Review: Existing research on PPD, social support, and the relationship between them.
Chapter 2: Methodology: Description of the research design (e.g., quantitative, qualitative, mixed-methods), participants, data collection methods (e.g., surveys, interviews), and data analysis techniques.
Chapter 3: Results: Presentation of the findings, including statistical analyses and qualitative data interpretation.
Chapter 4: Discussion: Interpretation of the results in the context of existing literature, limitations of the study, and implications for practice and future research.
Conclusion: Summary of key findings and recommendations for improving social support for new mothers to reduce the risk of PPD.


(Detailed explanation of each point in the outline would follow here, expanding upon each section to form a full research proposal. This would significantly exceed the current word count and is omitted for brevity's sake. A researcher could easily expand each of these points into several pages.)


FAQs:

1. What are the biggest challenges in labor and delivery research? Recruitment of diverse populations, ethical considerations related to data privacy, and obtaining funding for long-term studies.

2. How can I contribute to labor and delivery research? Participate in studies, volunteer at birthing centers, or donate to research organizations.

3. What are the most promising areas for future research? AI in labor prediction, personalized approaches to pain management, and interventions to improve postpartum mental health.

4. How does technology impact labor and delivery research? It allows for remote monitoring, data analysis, and development of new interventions.

5. What ethical considerations are crucial in this field? Informed consent, data security, and equitable access to research opportunities.

6. How can I find funding for my labor and delivery research project? Apply for grants from government agencies, foundations, and professional organizations.

7. What are the key skills needed for conducting labor and delivery research? Statistical analysis, research design, data collection, and strong communication skills.

8. How can labor and delivery research impact clinical practice? It can lead to improved protocols, new interventions, and better patient outcomes.

9. Where can I find resources for labor and delivery research? PubMed, research databases, and professional organizations like ACOG and AWHONN.


Related Articles:

1. The Role of Oxytocin in Labor: Explores the mechanisms by which oxytocin influences uterine contractions and labor progression.

2. Non-Pharmacological Pain Management in Labor: Reviews the effectiveness and safety of various non-pharmacological techniques.

3. The Impact of Cesarean Delivery on Postpartum Mental Health: Investigates the association between Cesarean section and the risk of PPD.

4. The Benefits of Doula Support During Labor: Discusses the positive impact of doulas on labor outcomes and maternal well-being.

5. Telemedicine in Labor and Delivery: Opportunities and Challenges: Evaluates the potential and limitations of using telemedicine during labor.

6. The Use of Artificial Intelligence in Fetal Monitoring: Examines the application of AI in improving the accuracy and efficiency of fetal heart rate monitoring.

7. Maternal Nutrition and Labor Outcomes: Explores the link between maternal diet and labor complications.

8. The Psychological Impact of Prolonged Labor: Discusses the effects of prolonged labor on maternal anxiety and stress.

9. Ethical Considerations in Labor and Delivery Research: Reviews ethical guidelines and best practices for conducting research in this field.


  labor and delivery research topics: Birth Settings in America National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, Health and Medicine Division, Division of Behavioral and Social Sciences and Education, Board on Children, Youth, and Families, Committee on Assessing Health Outcomes by Birth Settings, 2020-05-01 The delivery of high quality and equitable care for both mothers and newborns is complex and requires efforts across many sectors. The United States spends more on childbirth than any other country in the world, yet outcomes are worse than other high-resource countries, and even worse for Black and Native American women. There are a variety of factors that influence childbirth, including social determinants such as income, educational levels, access to care, financing, transportation, structural racism and geographic variability in birth settings. It is important to reevaluate the United States' approach to maternal and newborn care through the lens of these factors across multiple disciplines. Birth Settings in America: Outcomes, Quality, Access, and Choice reviews and evaluates maternal and newborn care in the United States, the epidemiology of social and clinical risks in pregnancy and childbirth, birth settings research, and access to and choice of birth settings.
  labor and delivery research topics: Counselling for Maternal and Newborn Health Care World Health Organization, 2010 The main aim of this practical Handbookis to strengthen counselling and communication skills of skilled attendants (SAs) and other health providers, helping them to effectively discuss with women, families and communities the key issues surrounding pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum, postnatal and post-abortion care. Counselling for Maternal and Newborn Health Careis divided into three main sections. Part 1 is an introduction which describes the aims and objectives and the general layout of the Handbook. Part 2 describes the counselling process and outlines the six key steps to effective counselling. It explores the counselling context and factors that influence this context including the socio-economic, gender, and cultural environment. A series of guiding principles is introduced and specific counselling skills are outlined. Part 3 focuses on different maternal and newborn health topics, including general care in the home during pregnancy; birth and emergency planning; danger signs in pregnancy; post-abortion care; support during labor; postnatal care of the mother and newborn; family planning counselling; breastfeeding; women with HIV/AIDS; death and bereavement; women and violence; linking with the community. Each Session contains specific aims and objectives, clearly outlining the skills that will be developed and corresponding learning outcomes. Practical activities have been designed to encourage reflection, provoke discussions, build skills and ensure the local relevance of information. There is a review at the end of each session to ensure the SAs have understood the key points before they progress to subsequent sessions.
  labor and delivery research topics: Childbirth Across Cultures Helaine Selin, 2009-12-01 This book will explore the childbirth process through globally diverse perspectives in order to offer a broader context with which to think about birth. We will address multiple rituals and management models surrounding the labor and birth process from communities across the globe. Labor and birth are biocultural events that are managed in countless ways. We are particularly interested in the notion of power. Who controls the pregnancy and the birth? Is it the hospital, the doctor, or the in-laws, and in which cultures does the mother have the control? These decisions, regarding place of birth, position, who receives the baby and even how the mother may or may not behave during the actual delivery, are all part of the different ways that birth is conducted. One chapter of the book will be devoted to midwives and other birth attendants. There will also be chapters on the Evolution of Birth, on Women’s Birth Narratives, and on Child Spacing and Breastfeeding. This book will bring together global research conducted by professional anthropologists, midwives and doctors who work closely with the individuals from the cultures they are writing about, offering a unique perspective direct from the cultural group.
  labor and delivery research topics: Exercise in Pregnancy Raul Artal Mittelmark, Robert A. Wiswell, 1986
  labor and delivery research topics: Evidence Based Labor and Delivery Management Vincenzo Berghella, Gabriele Saccone, Tullio Ghi, Amanda Roman, 2019-02-28 This book is a guide to labour and delivery management for trainees in obstetrics and gynaecology, and midwives. Divided into three sections, the text begins with detailed discussion on labour, from preparation before labour and delivery, through the different stages of labour, to postpartum care. The next section covers caesarean delivery, and the third, ‘special labour’ which explains labour complications, twins, prelabour rupture of membranes, and more. The book is authored by recognised experts from the USA and Italy, and is based on evidence from randomised controlled trials (RCTs). Clinical photographs, diagrams and tables further enhance learning. Key points Guide to labour and delivery management for trainees in obstetrics and gynaecology, and midwives Text based on evidence from randomised controlled trials (RCTs) Recognised author team from USA and Italy Includes clinical photographs, diagrams and tables
  labor and delivery research topics: An Update on Research Issues in the Assessment of Birth Settings National Research Council, Institute of Medicine, Board on Children, Youth, and Families, 2013-09-23 More than 30 years ago, the Institute of Medicine (IOM) and the National Research Council (NRC) convened a committee to determine methodologies and research needed to evaluate childbirth settings in the United States. The committee members reported their findings and recommendations in a consensus report, Research Issues in the Assessment of Birth Settings (IOM and NRC, 1982). An Update on Research Issues in the Assessment of Birth Settings is the summary of a workshop convened in March, 2013, to review updates to the 1982 report. Health care providers, researchers, government officials, and other experts from midwifery, nursing, obstetric medicine, neonatal medicine, public health, social science, and related fields presented and discussed research findings that advance our understanding of the effects of maternal care services in different birth settings on labor, clinical and other birth procedures, and birth outcomes. These settings include conventional hospital labor and delivery wards, birth centers, and home births. This report identifies datasets and relevant research literature that may inform a future ad hoc consensus study to address these concerns.
  labor and delivery research topics: Disease Control Priorities, Third Edition (Volume 2) Robert Black, Ramanan Laxminarayan, Marleen Temmerman, Neff Walker, 2016-04-11 The evaluation of reproductive, maternal, newborn, and child health (RMNCH) by the Disease Control Priorities, Third Edition (DCP3) focuses on maternal conditions, childhood illness, and malnutrition. Specifically, the chapters address acute illness and undernutrition in children, principally under age 5. It also covers maternal mortality, morbidity, stillbirth, and influences to pregnancy and pre-pregnancy. Volume 3 focuses on developments since the publication of DCP2 and will also include the transition to older childhood, in particular, the overlap and commonality with the child development volume. The DCP3 evaluation of these conditions produced three key findings: 1. There is significant difficulty in measuring the burden of key conditions such as unintended pregnancy, unsafe abortion, nonsexually transmitted infections, infertility, and violence against women. 2. Investments in the continuum of care can have significant returns for improved and equitable access, health, poverty, and health systems. 3. There is a large difference in how RMNCH conditions affect different income groups; investments in RMNCH can lessen the disparity in terms of both health and financial risk.
  labor and delivery research topics: What Mothers Say Sharon Bartholomew, 2009
  labor and delivery research topics: WHO Recommendations on Intrapartum Care for a Positive Childbirth Experience World Health Organization, 2018 This up-to-date, comprehensive and consolidated guideline on essential intrapartum care brings together new and existing WHO recommendations that, when delivered as a package, will ensure good-quality and evidence-based care irrespective of the setting or level of health care. The recommendations presented in this guideline are neither country nor region specific and acknowledge the variations that exist globally as to the level of available health services within and between countries. The guideline highlights the importance of woman-centered care to optimize the experience of labor and childbirth for women and their babies through a holistic, human rights-based approach. It introduces a global model of intrapartum care, which takes into account the complexity and diverse nature of prevailing models of care and contemporary practice. The recommendations in this guideline are intended to inform the development of relevant national- and local-level health policies and clinical protocols. Therefore, the target audience includes national and local public health policy-makers, implementers and managers of maternal and child health programs, health care facility managers, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), professional societies involved in the planning and management of maternal and child health services, health care professionals (including nurses, midwives, general medical practitioners and obstetricians) and academic staff involved in training health care professionals.
  labor and delivery research topics: Reducing Birth Defects Institute of Medicine, Board on Global Health, Committee on Improving Birth Outcomes, 2003-10-27 Each year more than 4 million children are born with birth defects. This book highlights the unprecedented opportunity to improve the lives of children and families in developing countries by preventing some birth defects and reducing the consequences of others. A number of developing countries with more comprehensive health care systems are making significant progress in the prevention and care of birth defects. In many other developing countries, however, policymakers have limited knowledge of the negative impact of birth defects and are largely unaware of the affordable and effective interventions available to reduce the impact of certain conditions. Reducing Birth Defects: Meeting the Challenge in the Developing World includes descriptions of successful programs and presents a plan of action to address critical gaps in the understanding, prevention, and treatment of birth defects in developing countries. This study also recommends capacity building, priority research, and institutional and global efforts to reduce the incidence and impact of birth defects in developing countries.
  labor and delivery research topics: Qualitative Research in Midwifery and Childbirth Gill Thomson, Fiona Dykes, Soo Downe, 2012-03-29 Qualitative Research in Midwifery and Childbirth brings together a range of phenomenological methods and insights into one accessible text. Illustrated with plenty of examples of successful phenomenological research, it keeps the focus applied to midwifery and childbirth and makes clear the links to practice throughout.
  labor and delivery research topics: Managing Complications in Pregnancy and Childbirth , 2003 The emphasis of the manual is on rapid assessment and decision making. The clinical action steps are based on clinical assessment with limited reliance on laboratory or other tests and most are possible in a variety of clinical settings.
  labor and delivery research topics: Pregnancy, Childbirth, Postpartum and Newborn Care World Health Organization, 2015 Intended to provide evidence-based recommendations to guide health care professionals in the management of women during pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum, and newborns, and the post abortion, including management of endemic deseases like malaria, HIV/AIDS, TB and anaemia. This edition has been updated to include recommendations from recently approved WHO guidelines relevant to maternal and perinatal health. These include pre-eclampsia & eclampsia; postpartum haemorrhage; postnatal care for the mother and baby; newborn resuscitation; prevention of mother-to- child transmission of HIV; HIV and infant feeding; malaria in pregnancy, interventions to improve preterm birth outcomes, tobacco use and second-hand exposure in pregnancy, post-partum depression, post-partum family planning and post abortion care.
  labor and delivery research topics: Birth Territory and Midwifery Guardianship Kathleen Fahy, Maralyn Foureur, Carolyn Hastie, 2008-07-14 Midwives and other healthcare providers are grappling with the issue of rising intervention rates in childbirth and trying to identify ways to reverse the trend. It is increasingly accepted that intervention in childbirth has long-term consequences for women and their children. Birth Territory provides practical, evidence-based ideas for restructuring the birth territory to facilitate normal birth. Links new research findings to birth environments and outcomes. Describes the elements of an ideal birthing environment. Suggests how to modify existing maternity services to achieve optimal results. Investigates the links between the experiences of women and babies, and outcomes. Explores the effects of legal and socio-political factors.
  labor and delivery research topics: WHO Recommendations for Augmentation of Labour World Health Organization, 2014 Optimizing outcomes for women in labor at the global level requires evidence-based guidance of health workers to improve care through appropriate patient selection and use of effective interventions. In this regard, the World Health Organization (WHO) published recommendations for induction of labor in 2011. The goal of the present guideline is to consolidate the guidance for effective interventions that are needed to reduce the global burden of prolonged labor and its consequences. The primary target audience includes health professionals responsible for developing national and local health protocols and policies, as well as obstetricians, midwives, nurses, general medical practitioners, managers of maternal and child health programs, and public health policy-makers in all settings.
  labor and delivery research topics: Labor and Delivery Nursing Michelle Murray, PhD, RNC, Gayle Huelsmann, BSN, RNC, 2008-12-15 Where was this book when I was a new nurse just learning the ropes of labor and delivery? This is a true gem of a book-a must for any new grad going into labor and deliveryÖ.I recommend this book for every labor and delivery floor. Cindy Curtis, RNC, IBCLC, CCE Former Director, The Family Birth Center Culpeper Regional Hospital Lignum, VA The best one stop reference book for the experienced and noviced Labor and Delivery RN....Finally an excellent Labor and Delivery book by RN's -- for RN's. Garla DeWall, RNC Presbyterian Hospital in the Family Birthing Center Albuquerque, New Mexico Labor and delivery nursing requires critical thinking, constant caring, teamwork, and communication. As the first line of defense to prevent injury, labor and delivery nurses take on some of the most difficult and trying challenges in the delivery room. Murray and Huelsmann present this clinically oriented guide to help labor and delivery nurses make wise decisions in the delivery room. The authors provide a wealth of insight on how to maximize both maternal and fetal outcomes. This book provides authoritative guidance on intervention options, creation of patient-centered plans of care, and improved communication with other members of the obstetrics team. Special Features: Explains the stages and phases of delivery, pain management, patient assessment, and much more Features references, relevant graphics, skills checklists, and review questions at the end of each section Useful for RNs new to the field, seasoned practitioners looking for updated methods and data, and nurses preparing for certification and licensure With this book, nurses will gain the confidence and competence to approach labor and delivery challenges with care and efficiency.
  labor and delivery research topics: Spirituality and Childbirth Susan Crowther, Jenny Hall, 2017-09-13 Highlighting aspects of birth often taken for granted, ignored or left silenced, this book questions the art and meaning of childbirth. Addressing spirituality in and around the start of life from a variety of thought-provoking perspectives, it examines the apparent paradox of impersonal biomedical-technocratic systems operating alongside the meaningful experiences encountered by those involved. Themes covered include: Notions of holism and spirituality, culture, religion and spirituality Childbirth significance at societal level Spiritual care in maternity care provision Birth environment, mood, space and place Spiritual experience of all those involved, including health professionals Spiritual experience when birth is complex and challenging When birth and death are juxtaposed. Although there is considerable literature on spirituality at the end of life, this is the only book that draws together a global and multidisciplinary selection of academic researchers and practitioners to reflect on spirituality at the start of life. Each chapter explores the relevant theoretical background and makes links to practice, using case studies from research and practice. The chapters conclude by discussing: how spiritual care is, and should be, provided in this context; what practice approaches are beneficial; cross-cultural perspectives; and future directions for research. It is an important read for all those interested in childbirth, maternity care, social science perspectives on health and illness, and spirituality.
  labor and delivery research topics: Healthy Beginnings Jane Paul, International Labour Office, 2004 Improving maternal health and reducing child mortality are among the eight UN Millennium Development Goals. This publication contains guidance on maternity protection in the workplace, focusing on measures that can be taken to establish a decent workplace and to identify workplace risks. The starting point is the Maternity Protection Convention (No. 183), adopted by the International Labour Conference in 2000 and its accompanying Recommendation (No. 191). The guide is intended for general use as a reference tool for employers, workers, trade union leaders, occupation health and safety advisors, labour inspectors and others involved in workplace health and maternity protection.
  labor and delivery research topics: Family-centred Maternity and Newborn Care Canada. Health and Welfare Canada, 1987
  labor and delivery research topics: The New Art and Science of Pregnancy and Childbirth Thiam Chye Tan, Tan Kim Teng, Tan Heng Heo, 2008 Edited by prominent obstetricians in KK Women's and Children's Hospital, the largest maternity hospital in Singapore with about 12,000 babies delivered each year, this book provides a comprehensive and informative look at pregnancy and childcare. It covers topics ranging from pre-pregnancy care, pregnancy care, and actual delivery to baby care. It also addresses common questions like, ?What are the pre-pregnancy vaccinations that I need??, ?Is it safe to dye, re-bond or perm my hair when I am pregnant??, and ?Are Chinese herbs and TCM safe for pregnancy?? Written by a diverse team of contributors, this easy-to-read book (replete with illustrations) is highly recommended for the lay person and busy career mums-to-be who are preparing for the arrival of their newborns.
  labor and delivery research topics: Canadian Maternity and Pediatric Nursing Jessica Webster, Caroline Sanders, Susan Ricci, Theresa Kyle, Susan Carmen, 2019-08-14 Canadian Maternity and Pediatric Nursing prepares your students for safe and effective maternity and pediatric nursing practice. The content provides the student with essential information to care for women and their families, to assist them to make the right choices safely, intelligently, and with confidence.
  labor and delivery research topics: The Thinking Woman's Guide to a Better Birth Henci Goer, 1999-08-01 As an intelligent woman, you are probably used to learning as much as you can before making major decisions. But when it comes to one of the most important decisions of your life--how you will give birth—it is hard to gather accurate, unbiased information. Surprisingly, much of the research does not support common medical opinion and practice. Birth activist Henci Goer gives clear, concise information based on the latest medical studies. The Thinking Woman's Guide to a Better Birth helps you compare and contrast your various options and shows you how to avoid unnecessary procedures, drugs, restrictions, and tests. The book covers: Cesareans Breech babies Inducing labor Electronic Fetal Monitoring Rupturing Membranes Coping with slow labor Pain medication Epistiotomy Vaginal birth after a Ceasarean Doulas Deciding on a doctor or midwife Choosing where to have your baby and much more . . .
  labor and delivery research topics: The Birth Of A Mother Daniel N Stern, Nadia Bruschweiler-Stern, 1998-12-03 As you prepare to become a mother, you face an experience unlike any other in your life. Having a baby will redirect your preferences and pleasures and, most likely, will realign some of your values.As you undergo this unique psychological transformation, you will be guided by new hopes, fears, and priorities. In a most startling way, having a child will influence all of your closest relationships and redefine your role in your family's history. The charting of this remarkable, new realm is the subject of this compelling book.Renowned psychiatrist Daniel N. Stern has joined forces with pediatrician and child psychiatrist Nadia Bruschweiler-Stern and journalist Alison Freeland to paint a wonderfully evocative picture of the psychology of motherhood. At the heart of The Birth of a Mother is an arresting premise: Just as a baby develops physically in utero and after birth, so a mother is born psychologically in the many months that precede and follow the birth of her baby.The recognition of this inner transformation emerges from hundreds of interviews with new mothers and decades of clinical experience. Filled with revealing case studies and personal comments from women who have shared this experience, this book will serve as an invaluable sourcebook for new mothers, validating the often confusing emotions that accompany the development of this new identity. In addition to providing insight into the unique state of motherhood, the authors touch on related topics such as going back to work, fatherhood, adoption, and premature birth.During pregnancy, mothers-to-be talk about morning sickness and their changing bodies, and new mothers talk about their exhaustion, the benefits of nursing or bottle-feeding, and the dilemma of whether or when they should return to work. And yet, they can be strangely mute about the dramatic and often overwhelming changes going on in their inner lives. Finally, with The Birth of a Mother, these powerful feelings are eloquently put into words.
  labor and delivery research topics: Outlawed Anna North, 2021-01-05 A REESE'S BOOK CLUB PICK * INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER * BELLETRIST BOOK CLUB PICK * INDIE NEXT SELECTION * LIBRARY READS SELECTION * AMAZON EDITORS' CHOICE * WASHINGTON POST BEST OF THE YEAR The terrifying, wise, tender, and thrilling (R.O. Kwon) adventure story of a fugitive girl, a mysterious gang of robbers, and their dangerous mission to transform the Wild West. In the year of our Lord 1894, I became an outlaw. The day of her wedding, 17 year old Ada's life looks good; she loves her husband, and she loves working as an apprentice to her mother, a respected midwife. But after a year of marriage and no pregnancy, in a town where barren women are routinely hanged as witches, her survival depends on leaving behind everything she knows. She joins up with the notorious Hole in the Wall Gang, a band of outlaws led by a preacher-turned-robber known to all as the Kid. Charismatic, grandiose, and mercurial, the Kid is determined to create a safe haven for outcast women. But to make this dream a reality, the Gang hatches a treacherous plan that may get them all killed. And Ada must decide whether she's willing to risk her life for the possibility of a new kind of future for them all. Featuring an irresistibly no-nonsense, courageous, and determined heroine, Outlawed dusts off the myth of the old West and reignites the glimmering promise of the frontier with an entirely new set of feminist stakes. Anna North has crafted a pulse-racing, page-turning saga about the search for hope in the wake of death, and for truth in a climate of small-mindedness and fear.
  labor and delivery research topics: Mayo Clinic Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy the pregnancy experts at Mayo Clinic, 2011-05-01 Any woman looking for accurate, reliable, and authoritative information on pregnancy will appreciate this book from the world-class Mayo Clinic. The Mayo Clinic Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy offers hundreds of pages of in-depth information that new parents will find useful and informative. Features include week-by-week updates on baby's growth, month-by-month changes that mom can expect, and a forty-week pregnancy calendar, as well as a symptom guide and a review of important pregnancy decisions. In this illustrated book you'll also find advice on getting pregnant, meal planning, healthy exercise, and safe medication use, along with general tips on becoming a parent. This pregnancy book is the result of the efforts of a collective team of pregnancy experts who find nothing in medicine more exciting and satisfying than the birth of a healthy child with a healthy mother. The Mayo Clinic Guide to a Healthy Pregnancy is an essential pregnancy resource for parents-to-be.
  labor and delivery research topics: Evidence-based Maternity Care Carol Sakala, Maureen P. Corry, 2008 Evidence-based maternity care uses the best available research on the safety and effectiveness of specific practices to help guide maternity care decisions and to facilitate optimal outcomes in mothers and newborns.-- From foreword.
  labor and delivery research topics: The Fourth Industrial Revolution Klaus Schwab, 2017-01-03 World-renowned economist Klaus Schwab, Founder and Executive Chairman of the World Economic Forum, explains that we have an opportunity to shape the fourth industrial revolu­tion, which will fundamentally alter how we live and work. Schwab argues that this revolution is different in scale, scope and complexity from any that have come before. Characterized by a range of new technologies that are fusing the physical, digital and biological worlds, the developments are affecting all disciplines, economies, industries and governments, and even challenging ideas about what it means to be human. Artificial intelligence is already all around us, from supercomputers, drones and virtual assistants to 3D printing, DNA sequencing, smart thermostats, wear­able sensors and microchips smaller than a grain of sand. But this is just the beginning: nanomaterials 200 times stronger than steel and a million times thinner than a strand of hair and the first transplant of a 3D printed liver are already in development. Imagine “smart factories” in which global systems of manu­facturing are coordinated virtually, or implantable mobile phones made of biosynthetic materials. The fourth industrial revolution, says Schwab, is more significant, and its ramifications more profound, than in any prior period of human history. He outlines the key technologies driving this revolution and discusses the major impacts expected on government, business, civil society and individu­als. Schwab also offers bold ideas on how to harness these changes and shape a better future—one in which technology empowers people rather than replaces them; progress serves society rather than disrupts it; and in which innovators respect moral and ethical boundaries rather than cross them. We all have the opportunity to contribute to developing new frame­works that advance progress.
  labor and delivery research topics: Traumatic Childbirth Cheryl Tatano Beck, Jeanne Watson Driscoll, Sue Watson, 2013-07-18 Postpartum depression has become a more recognized mental illness over the past decade as a result of education and increased awareness. Traumatic childbirth, however, is still often overlooked, resulting in a scarcity of information for health professionals. This is in spite of up to 34% of new mothers reporting experiencing a traumatic childbirth and prevalence rates rising for high risk mothers, such as those who experience stillbirth or who had very low birth weight infants. This ground-breaking book brings together an academic, a clinician and a birth trauma activist. Each chapter discusses current research, women’s stories, the common themes in the stories and the implications of these for practice, clinical case studies and a clinician’s insights and recommendations for care. Topics covered include: mothers’ perspectives, fathers’ perspectives, the impact on breastfeeding, the impact on subsequent births, PTSD after childbirth and EMDR treatment for PTSD. This book is a valuable resource for health professionals who come into contact with new mothers, providing the most current and accurate information on traumatic childbirth. It also presents mothers’ experiences in a manner that is accessible to women, their partners, and families.
  labor and delivery research topics: Freestanding Birth Centers Linda J Cole, DNP, RN, CNM, Melissa D Avery, PhD, RN, CNM, FACNM, FAAN, 2017-05-11 Written for graduate students and professionals in the fields of midwifery, women’s health, and public health, this book explores the freestanding birth center model in the United States from its conception by pioneering midwives and others in the early 1970s to the present day. Compared to the hospital-based birth model, the freestanding birth center offers a well-documented, healthier, more cost-effective, and more humane way to care for women and newborns, consistent with the goals of the Affordable Care Act. This rapidly expanding model of care has many positive implications for high-quality, individualized care and birth outcomes across the United States. Written by U.S. leaders in midwifery, Freestanding Birth Centers: Innovation, Evidence, Optimal Outcomes offers a comprehensive guide to the evolving role of birth centers, clinical and cost outcomes, regulatory and legal issues, provider and accreditation issues, and the future of the birth center model. Woven throughout the text are descriptions of exemplar birth centers representing diverse geographical, business, and service models. These cases illustrate the possibilities for expansion and replication of this model of care. Key Features Provides a thorough history of the birth center movement from its inception through future expansion of the model Serves as an essential resource with up-to-date evidence on clinical and cost outcomes Includes case studies linking the unique service focus of individual birth centers to the associated sections of the book Provides practical and comprehensive coverage of all issues involved in running a U.S. birth center
  labor and delivery research topics: Pediatric Ethics Alan R. Fleischman, 2016 This work examines the many ethical issues related to health care in children. It explores the moral obligations of families and clinicians facing hard choices for critically ill and dying children, ranging from neonates to adolescents. It also addresses the ethical concerns in research, genetic testing and screening, and surgical and medical enhancement
  labor and delivery research topics: Transforming the Workforce for Children Birth Through Age 8 National Research Council, Institute of Medicine, Board on Children, Youth, and Families, Committee on the Science of Children Birth to Age 8: Deepening and Broadening the Foundation for Success, 2015-07-23 Children are already learning at birth, and they develop and learn at a rapid pace in their early years. This provides a critical foundation for lifelong progress, and the adults who provide for the care and the education of young children bear a great responsibility for their health, development, and learning. Despite the fact that they share the same objective - to nurture young children and secure their future success - the various practitioners who contribute to the care and the education of children from birth through age 8 are not acknowledged as a workforce unified by the common knowledge and competencies needed to do their jobs well. Transforming the Workforce for Children Birth Through Age 8 explores the science of child development, particularly looking at implications for the professionals who work with children. This report examines the current capacities and practices of the workforce, the settings in which they work, the policies and infrastructure that set qualifications and provide professional learning, and the government agencies and other funders who support and oversee these systems. This book then makes recommendations to improve the quality of professional practice and the practice environment for care and education professionals. These detailed recommendations create a blueprint for action that builds on a unifying foundation of child development and early learning, shared knowledge and competencies for care and education professionals, and principles for effective professional learning. Young children thrive and learn best when they have secure, positive relationships with adults who are knowledgeable about how to support their development and learning and are responsive to their individual progress. Transforming the Workforce for Children Birth Through Age 8 offers guidance on system changes to improve the quality of professional practice, specific actions to improve professional learning systems and workforce development, and research to continue to build the knowledge base in ways that will directly advance and inform future actions. The recommendations of this book provide an opportunity to improve the quality of the care and the education that children receive, and ultimately improve outcomes for children.
  labor and delivery research topics: Encyclopedia of Nursing Research Dr. Joyce Fitzpatrick, PhD, MBA, RN, FAAN, FNAP, 2017-08-28 p>Third Edition Named a Doody's Essential Purchase! Named a Choice Outstanding Academic Title for 2007 and an AJN Book of the Year! This award-winning nursing reference, meticulously researched by luminaries in the field, represents the state of the art in nursing science. Comprehensive and concise, entries provide the most relevant and current research perspectives and demonstrate the depth and breadth of nursing research today. This one-stop reference presents key terms and concepts and clarifies their application to practice. The fourth edition has been substantially updated to contain the latest research for nurse scientists, educators, and students in all clinical specialties. With new information from the National Institute of Nursing Research, this reference is an essential compendium of nursing research for nursing students at any level and researchers in all clinical specialities. New to the Fourth Edition: Extensively revised and updated Provides new information emphasized by the National Institute of Nursing Research on wellness, end-of-life and palliative care, and health technology New entries, including Symptom Management Theory and Self-Management Key Features: Provides the most relevant and current research perspectives Written by over 200 experts in the field Clarifies research applications in practice
  labor and delivery research topics: The Labor Progress Handbook Penny Simkin, Lisa Hanson, Ruth Ancheta, 2017-05-01 Praise for the previous edition: This…edition is timely, useful, well organized, and should be in the bags of all doulas, nurses, midwives, physicians, and students involved in childbirth. –Journal of Midwifery and Women's Health The Labor Progress Handbook: Early Interventions to Prevent and Treat Dystocia is an unparalleled resource on simple, non-invasive interventions to prevent or treat difficult or prolonged labor. Thoroughly updated and highly illustrated, the book shows how to tailor one’s care to the suspected etiology of the problem, using the least complex interventions first, followed by more complex interventions if necessary. This new edition now includes a new chapter on reducing dystocia in labors with epidurals, new material on the microbiome, as well as information on new counselling approaches specially designed for midwives to assist those who have had traumatic childbirths. Fully referenced and full of practical instructions throughout, The Labor Progress Handbook continues to be an indispensable guide for novices and experts alike who will benefit from its concise and accessible content.
  labor and delivery research topics: What to Expect the First Year Heidi Murkoff, 2008-10-08 Some things about babies, happily, will never change. They still arrive warm, cuddly, soft, and smelling impossibly sweet. But how moms and dads care for their brand-new bundles of baby joy has changed—and now, so has the new-baby bible. Announcing the completely revised third edition of What to Expect the First Year. With over 10.5 million copies in print, First Year is the world’s best-selling, best-loved guide to the instructions that babies don’t come with, but should. And now, it’s better than ever. Every parent’s must-have/go-to is completely updated. Keeping the trademark month-by-month format that allows parents to take the potentially overwhelming first year one step at a time, First Year is easier-to-read, faster-to-flip-through, and new-family-friendlier than ever—packed with even more practical tips, realistic advice, and relatable, accessible information than before. Illustrations are new, too. Among the changes: Baby care fundamentals—crib and sleep safety, feeding, vitamin supplements—are revised to reflect the most recent guidelines. Breastfeeding gets more coverage, too, from getting started to keeping it going. Hot-button topics and trends are tackled: attachment parenting, sleep training, early potty learning (elimination communication), baby-led weaning, and green parenting (from cloth diapers to non-toxic furniture). An all-new chapter on buying for baby helps parents navigate through today’s dizzying gamut of baby products, nursery items, and gear. Also new: tips on preparing homemade baby food, the latest recommendations on starting solids, research on the impact of screen time (TVs, tablets, apps, computers), and “For Parents” boxes that focus on mom’s and dad’s needs. Throughout, topics are organized more intuitively than ever, for the best user experience possible.
  labor and delivery research topics: Nursing Research Denise Polit, Cheryl Beck, 2019-12-09 Make nursing research approachable with the authoritative resource for nursing graduate students. This best-selling text features the latest methodologic innovations in nursing, medicine, and the social sciences delivered in a user-friendly writing style to help students master research methods, confidently critique research reports, and apply evidence-based findings in clinical practice. The extensively revised 11th Edition retains the helpful features, pedagogy, and clean design that have made the book a classic and introduces two new chapters reflecting the growing importance of applicability, generalizability, relevance, and quality improvement and improvement science. NEW! Quality Improvement and Improvement Science chapter provides methods and frameworks to help students develop and assess improvement projects. NEW! Applicability, Generalizability, and Relevance: Toward Practice-Based Evidence chapter details cutting-edge strategies to meet the growing need for patient-centered, practice-based evidence. UPDATED! Revised content throughout reflects the latest methodologic approaches to ranking evidence, verifying systematic reviews, using meta-aggregation, and more. Critical appraisal guidelines help students focus on specific aspects of a report for the most effective appraisal. Clear, user-friendly writing style introduces concepts logically and clarifies difficult ideas. Specific research tips translate abstract notions into practical strategies to help students confidently apply chapter lessons in real-life situations. Research examples throughout the text illustrate key points and stimulate critical thinking. A comprehensive index provides fast, efficient access to precise information. Tables, figures, and bulleted summaries reinforce essential chapter concepts at a glance.
  labor and delivery research topics: WHO Recommendations on Antenatal Care for a Positive Pregnancy Experience World Health Organization, 2016 Within the continuum of reproductive health care, antenatal care provides a platform for important health-care functions, including health promotion, screening and diagnosis, and disease prevention. It has been established that, by implementing timely and appropriate evidence-based practices, antenatal care can save lives. Endorsed by the United Nations Secretary-General, this is a comprehensive WHO guideline on routine antenatal care for pregnant women and adolescent girls. It aims to complement existing WHO guidelines on the management of specific pregnancy-related complications. The guidance captures the complex nature of the antenatal care issues surrounding healthcare practices and delivery, and prioritizes person-centered health and well-being --- not only the prevention of death and morbidity --- in accordance with a human rights-based approach.
  labor and delivery research topics: Williams Obstetrics 26e F. Gary Cunningham, Kenneth J. Leveno, Jodi S. Dashe, Barbara L. Hoffman, Catherine Y. Spong, Brian M. Casey, 2022-04-05 The landmark text that has served generations of obstetrician-gynecologists—fully updated with the most current perspectives of the field A Doody's Core Title for 2023! Williams Obstetrics has defined the discipline for generations of obstetrician-gynecologists. Written by authors from the nationally renowned University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center and Parkland Hospital, the new edition of this authoritative, evidence-based work maintains its trademark comprehensive coverage and applicability at the bedside, while offering the most current information and insights. The culmination of a century of clinical thought, Williams Obstetrics, 26th Edition delivers expert coverage of obstetrical complications, such as preterm labor, pregnancy-related hypertension, infection, and hemorrhage. It additionally offers foundational content on reproductive anatomy, physiology, and prenatal care. The authors have enhanced this edition with 1,000+ full-color illustrations, plus an increased emphasis on the fast-growing subspecialty of Maternal-Fetal Medicine. No other text matches the long-established scientific rigor and accessibility of Williams Obstetrics. With its state-of-the-art design and review of the newest advances and protocols, this not-be-missed clinical companion brings positive outcomes within reach. New and updated content includes: Increased focus on Maternal-Fetal Medicine Greater coverage of hypertension and hemorrhage Deeper insights into in-utero complications Expanded fetal t section includes cutting-edge fetal imaging, genetics, prenatal diagnosis, and fetal disorders and therapy Basic science, physiology of labor, preterm labor updated with contemporaneous publications in the literature More obstetrical sonography figures Eye-catching illustrations, including updated graphs, sonograms, MRIs, photographs, and photomicrographs
  labor and delivery research topics: Handbook of Clinical Obstetrics E. Albert Reece, MD, PhD, MBA, John C. Hobbins, 2008-04-15 The second edition of this quick reference handbook for obstetricians and gynecologists and primary care physicians is designed to complement the parent textbook Clinical Obstetrics: The Fetus & Mother The third edition of Clinical Obstetrics: The Fetus & Mother is unique in that it gives in-depth attention to the two patients – fetus and mother, with special coverage of each patient. Clinical Obstetrics thoroughly reviews the biology, pathology, and clinical management of disorders affecting both the fetus and the mother. Clinical Obstetrics: The Fetus & Mother - Handbook provides the practising physician with succinct, clinically focused information in an easily retrievable format that facilitates diagnosis, evaluation, and treatment. When you need fast answers to specific questions, you can turn with confidence to this streamlined, updated reference.
  labor and delivery research topics: Pain Management and the Opioid Epidemic National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, Health and Medicine Division, Board on Health Sciences Policy, Committee on Pain Management and Regulatory Strategies to Address Prescription Opioid Abuse, 2017-09-28 Drug overdose, driven largely by overdose related to the use of opioids, is now the leading cause of unintentional injury death in the United States. The ongoing opioid crisis lies at the intersection of two public health challenges: reducing the burden of suffering from pain and containing the rising toll of the harms that can arise from the use of opioid medications. Chronic pain and opioid use disorder both represent complex human conditions affecting millions of Americans and causing untold disability and loss of function. In the context of the growing opioid problem, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) launched an Opioids Action Plan in early 2016. As part of this plan, the FDA asked the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine to convene a committee to update the state of the science on pain research, care, and education and to identify actions the FDA and others can take to respond to the opioid epidemic, with a particular focus on informing FDA's development of a formal method for incorporating individual and societal considerations into its risk-benefit framework for opioid approval and monitoring.
  labor and delivery research topics: Manpower Research and Development Projects , 1969