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J Obstet Gynaecol Can 2013;35(11):971–972 A yourself this: do you think that your clinical decisions are ever swayed by financial influences? Or by other influences that lead to personal gain? Most of us would likely answer “no,” and feel annoyed by the question. Members of society like to believe that their physicians act entirely in their patients’ best interests, using the most upto-date information and weighing the risks and benefits of interventions without prejudice. We like to think that we live up to these expectations, and that financial influences have no effect on what we recommend to a patient.

Objective To determine the postprocedure loss rate for mid-trimester genetic amniocentesis. Outcome Reduction of benign biopsy rates. Benefits To provide better advice for women about the risks and benefits of mid-trimester genetic amniocentesis, and to ensure that women are given sufficient information/counselling to make a decision about screening. Summary Statement The risk of postprocedure loss is unique to the individual and is based on multiple variables.

Objective To examine the value of teaching regular breast self-examination (BSE). Outcome Reduction of benign biopsy rates. Benefits To provide better advice for women about the risks and benefits of BSE, and to ensure that women who choose to practise BSE are taught to perform it proficiently. Summary Statement Routine teaching of BSE does not reduce mortality and likely increases benign biopsy rates. (I) Recommendations 1.Breast self-examination should not be routinely taught to women. (ID) 2.A full discussion of breast self-examination, including risks, should be provided for the woman who requests it. (IMA) 3.If a woman makes an informed decision to practise BSE, care providers should ensure she is taught the skills and that she performs self-examination proficiently. (IMA) Validation This committee opinion was developed by the Breast Disease Committee of the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada. It was approved by the Executive and Council of the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada. Sponsor The Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada.