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Objective In our previous studies we have shown that the process of term labor is associated with oxidative stress, as indicated by increased susceptibility of maternal serum lipids to copper induced peroxidation. In order to continue evaluating the role of oxidative stress in the labor process, we next tested whether term premature rupture of the membranes (PROM) is also associated with increased susceptibility of maternal serum lipids to copper induced peroxidation. Design A controlled prospective study. Setting Tertiary care centre. Population 31 healthy women with term PROM and 19 healthy pregnant women with intact membranes. The women were matched for maternal and gestational age. Methods Venous blood was drawn from the women (up to 6h after rupture of the membranes and prior to labor in the PROM group), and the kinetics of copper-induced oxidation of serum lipids ex vivo were monitored spectroscopically at 37°C by continuous recording of absorbance at 245nm. Results The lag phase, reflecting resistance of serum lipids to oxidation, was similar in the PROM group when compared to the control group (43.7±3.2 versus 41.9±1.6min, P =0.61). However, the maximal rate of oxidation ( V max ) and the maximal accumulation of absorbing products (OD max ) were shorter in the PROM group when compared to the control group (5.14±0.26 versus 6.29±0.4010 −3 OD 245 nm/min, P =0.016; 0.61±0.03 versus 0.71±0.04 OD 245 nm, P =0.07). Conclusion As opposed to term labor, term PROM is not associated with increased maternal systemic oxidative stress when compared to normal pregnant women. The role for oxidative stress in preterm PROM warrants further studies.

Objective: The study was conducted to compare maternal and neonatal outcome of two groups of nulliparae with breech presentations, who were selected for vaginal delivery by protocols differing only in their use of X-ray pelvimetry. Study Design: We reviewed all term singleton breech deliveries of nulliparous patients who were eligible for vaginal trial of labour in our Centre between 1992 and 1994. In Group A ( n =85) X-ray pelvimetry was performed, and in Group B ( n =70) it was not. Obstetric management was otherwise similar. Admission to the two departments was on alternate days. Results: The rate of caesarean section was similar in both groups (Group A, 36.4% vs. Group B, 42.8%; P >0.05), however, the indications for caesarean section differed. Neonatal outcome was similar in both groups. Maternal febrile morbidity was higher in Group B patients, especially those who underwent caesarean section after a trial of labour. Conclusion: X-ray pelvimetry in nulliparae with breech presentation is associated with reduced maternal febrile morbidity, but does not improve neonatal outcome.

Rectal carcinoma is rare during pregnancy. Prognosis is usually unfavorable due to late diagnosis, and management, especially regarding the mode of delivery, is controversial. Current treatment of rectal carcinoma includes neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy, which may influence obstetrical management. We present a case report and discuss obstetrical management in view of updated knowledge and therapeutic approaches.