Obesity and Pregnancy

Obesity can stop ovulation and the capacity for pregnancy. Additionally, obesity increases the risk of miscarriage and other complications of pregnancy, such as gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia, etc. Lifestyle modification, i.e., weight loss, exercise, etc., may improve ovulation and increase the likelihood that a woman can become pregnant and maintain the pregnancy. Should changes in one's lifestyle be insufficient, ovulation induction should be considered as the first line of treatment. Should clomiphene citrate fail to help conception, the second stage of treatment could include exogenous gonadotropins or laparoscopic ovarian surgery. Finally, IVF should be considered. However, Metformin, which is used in polycystic ovarian syndrome, should be used exclusively by women who have a glucose intolerance.

Abortion: More than a Woman's Choice; a Good Choice

First trimester surgical abortion is a very common, effecective, and safe procedure (Tristan et al.,2009). Psychological counseling, along with medical advice can lead to good outcomes. Complications of first trimester abortions result in only 0.5% of all cases which includes incomplete abortions, infections, uterine perforations, etc.
Infectious complications may result in death. However, in places where abortions are legal, the actual risk of infection is low, and rarely results in death or sepsis. Yet another very significant finding that supports legalized abortion.

Children's Book Explaining ART

A new book entitiled "Where Do I Come From?" by Narelle Wickman, published in Australia, discusses sexual intercourse, various assisted reproductive technologies used in conception, and adoption. The book provides information for children regarding donor insemination,IVF, surrogacy, and adoption in non-judgemental language and is appropriate for children.
The book has sparked controversy among some, including conservative Christians, because they believe the author does de-values the "traditional" family, (whatever that is; emphasis mine). Many patients who conceive through the ARTs state they would explain the high-tech methods used in conception to their children if they had guidelines or an accurate "script" to follow. This book may assist parents wishing to disclose the truth about the methods used in their children's conception.