Pregnancy Research

Neilson JP Symphysis-fundal height measurement in pregnancy (Cochrane Review)
In this review, the authors determined that there is not enough evidence to evaluate Symphysis-fundal height measurement as part of antenatal care. Yet, this is the most common measure of fetal growth. I think this review is important because it demonstrates a lack of research about subjects that no one would question. How did this become the standard without research to demonstrate that it is more effective at predicting problems than fetal palpatation?

Young GL, Jewell D. Interventions for leg cramps in pregnancy (Cochrane Review)
In this review the authors drew the following conclusions:

The evidence that calcium reduces cramp is weak and seems to depend on placebo effect. The evidence for sodium chloride is stronger but the results of the sodium chloride trial may no longer be relevant because of dietary changes which include an increased sodium intake in the general population. It is not possible to recommend multivitamins with mineral supplementation, as it is not clear which ingredient, if any, is helping. If a woman finds cramp troublesome in pregnancy, the best evidence is for magnesium lactate or citrate taken as 5mmol in the morning and 10mmol in the evening.

Mary L. Hardy. Women's Health Series: Herbs of Special Interest to Women. J Am Pharm Assoc 40(2):234-242, 2000. � 2000 American Pharmaceutical Association.
This review of the literature looks at the uses of herbs during pregnancy. The author cautions that although herbs can be beneficial there is inadequate research into the risks and side effects of herbs in pregnancy.

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