DILEMMAS AFTER ULTRASONIC DIAGNOSIS OF FETAL ABNORMALITY

Several British case studies are presented to demonstrate the effects of antenatal diagnosis on treatment decisions and the pregnant woman and the dilemmas that arise when an incorrect diagnosis is made based on ultrasound.

Abstract

Several British case studies are presented to demonstrate the effects of antenatal diagnosis on treatment decisions and the pregnant woman. A woman diagnosed as carrying an abnormal fetus often develops intense feeling of fear, guilt, and inadequacy, sometimes resulting in rejection at birth of the baby and the hospital. Overly optimistic counseling lessens distress immediately after birth but may be counterproductive in the long term. Three of the cases demonstrate the dilemmas that arise when an incorrect diagnosis is made based on ultrasound.