Ethics in Obstetrics and Gynecology

Abstract

Moral and ethical values have been changed from primitive and ancient societies to today's modern society. Changes in medical ethics are results of changes in scientific knowledge's, culture's and sociological changes, law, various political heritages, religious beliefs, ethnic and cultural traditions, the traditions and practices of medicine (including medical education and training) and personal experience, but they are also consequences of reforms in health care system. Triumphal achievements in medical science have opened new horizons in human reproduction, but they have brought many ethical and legal issues and dilemmas. Evolution of ethics and patient's rights, which were established in last few decades have brought substantial changes in medical ethics and practice. Struggle for reduction of prenatal mortality and morbidity is disturbed by patient's wishes for those obstetric procedures which are confronted with it's aims. Confronted between two basic ethical principles, humanity on one and respect for patient's autonomy on the other side, obstetrician should not forget that the society's mandate and legal underpinning is absolutely clear: women are to be at the center of decisions surrounding their obstetric and midwifery care. Our perspective is to support large, well designed, randomized trials that could help define appropriate care for common indications for Caesarean Section, including those who are on demand. Obviously, those trials take time. With those knowledge's we will be able to present to patients reliable facts. With this we will fulfill the commitment of health care supporters for health care education of population and to help patients to chose those methods which are in theirs best interest, with respect for their dignity and autonomy in the same time. Refusal of medical exam, which aim is education of young doctors and midwifes becomes big problem which demands new solutions in order to ethical principles and patient's rights.