2018 Colleen M.Marty, Brian S.Carter
The perinatal world is unique in its conscientious consideration of two patients in decision-making and clinical management - the foetus and the pregnant woman. The potential of the foetus-neonate is intertwined with absolute considerations for the woman as an independent patient. This review addresses the ethical implications of prenatal diagnosis, the identification of parental values and goals, birth plans, the fluidity of decision-making over time and the potential role of palliative care support in the prenatal and postnatal periods .