Neural tube defects (NTDs) comprise a group of congenital malformations associated with the failure of closure of the neural tube, which is normally complete by day 28 of embryonic development. NTDs include anencephaly, encephalocele and spina bifida. They are the second most common major congenital anomaly and,...

General practice is severely challenged at present. We have manpower shortages, high workload and low morale. Many of us have financially unviable practices, while simultaneously our specialty is threatened by financial exploitation from outside providers and those who would cherry-pick parts of what has...

Mastitis is a tender, hot, swollen, wedge-shaped area of breast associated with pyrexia, flu-like aching and systemic illness. However, ‘mastitis literally means, and is defined herein, as an inflammation of the breast; this inflammation may or may not involve a bacterial infection’.¹ Mastitis can be...

Although the Department of Health recommends women avoid smoking in pregnancy, the most recent Irish data shows that approximately 11% of women continue to report this behaviour.¹ It is likely that this prevalence figure is an under-representation of the problem as non-disclosure rates of 10-25% exist in...

Concealed pregnancy as a social issue remains a contemporary problem in Ireland and internationally. It is a complex process which involves hiding a pregnancy and can lead to maternal or neonatal morbidity or mortality.¹

Many still believe that women and young girls conceal their pregnancy because of the...