Ethical issues in perinatal communication.

Abstract

Advancements in neonatal critical care continue, enhancing perinatal communication is essential to address the bioethical challenges faced. In perinatal care, various life-limiting or life-threatening conditions that address ethical issues can arise, both during the prenatal and postnatal phases. The diagnosis, prognosis, and potential treatment of these conditions significantly influence the lives of both the unborn child and the newborn, thereby directly impacting parental choices and experiences. This review arises from the necessity to highlight the importance of developing a structured framework concerning the critical components of perinatal care, with a specific focus on the pivotal role of communication. A standardized approach is recommended for counseling at the time of diagnosis of critical fetal conditions, to care for the couple and to support their decision making.

Conclusions: In perinatal critical clinical scenarios, it is imperative that healthcare providers communicate to parents using effective communication strategies, with standardized frameworks. Moreover, integrating perinatal palliative care into the treatment pathway for fetuses with limited life expectancy is essential, within referral centers.

What is known: • In perinatal care, different life-limiting or life-threatening conditions that address ethical issues can arise, both during the prenatal and postnatal phases. • The diagnosis, prognosis, and potential treatment of critical fetal and postnatal conditions significantly affect the lives of the child and parents.

What is new: • Communication has a pivotal role concerning the critical components of perinatal care. • A standardized approach is recommended for counseling at the time of diagnosis of critical fetal conditions, to care for the couple and to support their decision making.