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Ethical frameworks for obstetrics and gynaecology
Author(s) -
Bewley Susan,
Lupton Martin
Publication year - 2003
Publication title -
the obstetrician and gynaecologist
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1744-4667
pISSN - 1467-2561
DOI - 10.1576/toag.5.4.208.26917
Subject(s) - ethical issues , obstetrics and gynaecology , engineering ethics , ethical theory , ethical dilemma , dimension (graph theory) , psychology , medicine , obstetrics , epistemology , philosophy , engineering , pregnancy , biology , genetics , mathematics , pure mathematics
Most aspects of the doctor‐patient relationship have an ethical dimension and the potential to pose ethical dilemmas. The depth and breadth of ethical issues in obstetrics and gynaecology cannot possibly be covered in a short article. However, this article offers a guide to help discussion. Three main philosophical frameworks used by professional ethicists to examine ethical dilemmas are described, together with some of their methodology. We end with some practical suggestions of how to avoid ethical conflicts and of how to approach ethical dilemmas when they arise.