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Obstetric venous thromboembolism is a leading cause of severe maternal morbidity and mortality. Maternal death from thromboembolism is amenable to prevention, and thromboprophylaxis is the most readily implementable means of systematically reducing the maternal death rate. Observational data support the benefit of risk-factor-based prophylaxis in reducing obstetric thromboembolism. This bundle, developed by a multidisciplinary working group and published by the National Partnership for Maternal Safety under the guidance of the Council on Patient Safety in Women's Health Care, supports routine thromboembolism risk assessment for obstetric patients, with appropriate use of pharmacologic and mechanical thromboprophylaxis. Safety bundles outline critical clinical practices that should be implemented in every maternity unit. The safety bundle is organized into 4 domains: Readiness, Recognition, Response, and Reporting and Systems Learning. Although the bundle components may be adapted to meet the resources available in individual facilities, standardization within an institution is strongly encouraged. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Puerperal genital tract infections, although less common in the 21st century, continue to affect maternal mortality and morbidity rates in the United States. Puerperal genital tract infections include endometritis as well as abdominal and perineal wound infections. These infections interrupt postpartum restoration, increase the potential for readmission to a health care facility, and can interfere with maternal-infant bonding. In addition, unrecognized or improperly treated genital tract infection could extend to other sites via venous circulation or the lymphatic system and increase the risk of severe complications or sepsis. Midwives are leaders in education, low rates of intervention, and prompt recognition of deviation from normal. Because puerperal genital tract infection usually begins after discharge, detailed education for women will encourage preventative health care, prompt recognition, and treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nearly 30% of women experience an anxiety disorder at some time during their lives, and there is increasing evidence that anxiety disorders are associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. Despite increased media coverage regarding anxiety disorders, women are reluctant to discuss signs and symptoms of anxiety with family or health care providers. Additionally, despite ongoing research and improved educational curricula, primary care and women's health care providers find diagnosis and treatment of mental health disorders challenging. This article reviews the diagnostic features and pharmacologic treatment options for the most common anxiety disorders including generalized anxiety disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, panic disorder, and posttraumatic stress disorder. The impact of anxiety disorders on pregnancy and guidelines for management are presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]