Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproductive Medicine
Volume 19, Issue 4 , Pages 115-116, April 2009

Fetal awareness

Richard Smith PhD MRCOG is a Consultant Obstetrician and Subspecialist in Fetal Medicine at the Norfolk & Norwich University Hospitals Foundation NHS Foundation Trust, Norwich, UK

Abstract 

Evidence is imprecise, but the fetus is probably not capable of being aware before 16 weeks, and has the mechanisms necessary for awareness after 26 weeks. Administering fetal analgesia is not straightforward, and theoretical benefits for the fetus must be weighed against actual risks for the mother. Obstetricians should be aware of the issues to allow sensitive discussion with patients undergoing procedures where the subject of fetal awareness may arise.

Keywords: analgesia, awareness, fetal pain, stress

To access this article, please choose from the options below

Login to an existing account or Register a new account.

  • Purchase this article for 31.50 USD (You must login/register to purchase this article)

    Online access for 24 hours. The PDF version can be downloaded as your permanent record.

  • Subscribe to this title

    Get unlimited online access to this article and all other articles in this title 24/7 for one year.

  • Claim access now

    For current subscribers with Society Membership or Account Number.

  • Visit SciVerse ScienceDirect to see if you have access via your institution.
 

PII: S1751-7214(08)00244-3

doi:10.1016/j.ogrm.2008.11.014

Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproductive Medicine
Volume 19, Issue 4 , Pages 115-116, April 2009

Article Tools