[Epidemiologic methods for evaluating the effects of occupational exposure on pregnancy outcome]

Methodological problems of epidemiological studies of the effect of harmful factors present in the working environment on the reproduction and development of the progeny were discussed. Basic types of epidemiological studies such as retrospective and prospective cohort studies, cross-sectional and case-control studies were presented. Issues pertaining to the measurement bias and its sources in individual types of studies were raised. An appropriate selection of measures illustrating disturbances in the reproduction and development of the progeny was considered as well as adapted definitions of those measures and their correct classification. ahe methodology of an appropriate assessment of exposure to harmful factors in the working environment was also discussed.