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An ethical critique of boutique fetal imaging:a case for the medicalization of fetal imaging.

by Chervenak FA, McCullough LB
American journal of obstetrics and gynecology.

Article Abstract:

There has been a resurgence of boutique fetal imaging (non-diagnostic use of ultrasound scanning to make images of the fetus) after earlier efforts of this type were stopped by the Food and Drug Administration. Boutique fetal imaging is a logical extension of critiques of the medicalization of pregnancy and other aspects of our lives. We address the ethical issues that are involved in boutique fetal imaging, which include blanket prescriptions, psychosocial risks to pregnant women, the misleading label of "baby pictures," impact on decisions to terminate a pregnancy that was discovered later to be complicated by an anomaly, lack of adequate informed consent, medical cosmesis, and economic conflicts of interest. We argue for the medicalization of fetal imaging and that boutique fetal imaging is unjustified ethically.

Boutique Fetal Imaging - you may not agree... but how can you stop it?

By: Anonymous - Fri 10/28/2005 PM
Clearly, there are issues with fetal imaging, and consequences that patients may not think of initially; and subsequently have to deal with without preparation. But isn't it paternalistic to tell patients that it is unethical and this shouldn't be allowed??

The bottom line: does it cause DIRECT harm -- and the answer is no.

There are countless items in our society that DO cause DIRECT harm and are legal (ie: ETOH, Smoking, Tanning booths, Fast food, etc.etc.).

Patients are educated, seek out these procedures, and should be allowed to get them if they want to pay for them.
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