At the conclusion of his editorial on magnesium sulfate, Dr. Barbieri mentioned the need for more research. I’d like to propose another reason we haven’t solved the problem of preterm labor: We have overlooked the factor of stress.
From what I can see, there are many gravidas who are in no way prepared to handle the responsibilities of pregnancy or parenthood. The psychological stress these women are under should not be underestimated as a possible cause of preterm labor. Many of these women don’t even realize how stressful their life is.
We need to educate our young about the responsibility involved in raising a child, and we need to encourage the media and entertainment community to start sending the message that sex is not to be taken lightly but leads to very serious responsibilities.
Jerome A. Klobutcher, MD
Des Plaines, Ill