Some of the principal research advances of the 1970s related to pregnancy and newborn infants and consequent changes in obstetrical practice are summarized in this report. The process of infant-parent attachment (bonding), adolescent pregnancy, and the reproductive hazards of tobacco, alcohol, and poor nutrition have been investigated and, in several problem areas, new risk-reducing medical practices have been developed and implemented. Still, prematurely born and low birthweight infants comprise a disproportionate share of perinatal morbidity and mortality. Prevention of such births continues to be a research priority in the 1980s. Additionally, birth problems associated with the Rh factor of red blood cells of mothers and their infants have not been eradicated. Ultrasound, a diagnostic technique that uses the reflected echoes of high frequency sound waves to see inside the human body, has been used in intrauterine transfusion of red blood cells, thus avoiding fetal irradiation. Other technological advances include the monitoring of fetal health during labor via electronic fetal heart rate monitoring and fetal blood tests. To provide all necessary maternal and neonatal care in the most cost-effective manner, a system of regionalized graded levels of perinatal services has been successfully established. Newborn transport and continuing education programs have been critical to the success of these services. (Author/RH)