ABSTRACTS OF FEATURE ARTICLES

Emotional Support for the Woman With an Epidural
by Penny Simkin
The Goals for all childbearing women are safe, esteem-building, satisfying birth experiences that launch them into motherhood with a sense of competence and self-confidence. Educational support based on knowledge of emotional aspects of labor (with and without an epidural) helps ensure that these goals will be met.

Coping With the Unusual
by Lois Tschetter and Marilyn Hildreth
This article describes an effective and time-efficient approach to sharing information with parents about unexpected events in pregnancy and childbirth. The use of a familiar acronym which uses new terminology gives childbirth educators an alternative way to introduce strategies for coping with unanticipated situations. The acronym promotes quick recall, while minimizing the fears that parents may have of facing the unusual.

Side Effects of Epidurals: A Summary of Recent Research Data
by Janelle Durham
In order to effectively educate expectant parents about epidurals, a childbirth educator should have up-to-date, accurate knowledge about the potential side effects. This article summarizes data found in three review articles published recently in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology, which in turn summarize a large collection of observational studies and controlled trials.

The Triple Screen: Friend or Foe?
by Carol Angello
The Triple Screen is an optional prenatal blood test offered to pregnant women. For some families, the results of the test can be reassuring and helpful in reducing anxiety in regard to having a baby born with a significant disorder or handicap. Other families may not haave been given the reassurance they had hoped for and instead may feel fear, anxiety, and even anger. This article will provide information about the Triple Screen as well as share insight into the choices that some families are given.

Listening to Mother: The First National US Survey of Women's Childbearing Experiences
by Carol Sakala
Results of the Listening to Mothers survey enable an unprecedented level of understanding about many dimensions of the maternity experience in the United States.

COLUMNS

Statistics
by Dale E. King
Low Birth Weight and Neonatal Morbidity

Political Issues
by Naomi Bromberg Bar-Yam
Prenatal Testing: Personal Choices and Social Context

Nutrition News
by Dvorka Monti
What's So "Essential" About Essential Fatty Acids in Pregnancy?

International Issues
by Susan Elliott
Research

Audio Visual Review
by Margery Simchak
Choices in Childbirth: Volume One, Epidural Anesthesia

Educator's Corner
by Linda Worzer

Certification Update
Policy Change for ICEA Certification Programs