This book covers the obstetric examination, which is predominantly a discipline for midwives, GPs and gynaecologists. The authors have tried to bring together the expertise from these different perspectives to form a set of general guidelines for good obstetric practice. An understanding of the reasoning behind obstetric management and obstetric interventions is only possible with a knowledge and understanding of the physiological processes that occur during pregnancy in the pregnant woman and foetus. These have therefore been covered, albeit briefly. Specific attention has been paid to risk assessment, and dealing with the risk assessment procedures.

Management, supervision and practical skills during parturition are a focal point in this book. The dilation, delivery, placental delivery and postnatal period are discussed separately.