Obstetric Emergencies
Chapter 23 Obstetric Emergencies Vasa praevia The term vasa praevia is used when a fetal blood vessel lies over the os, in front of the presenting part. This occurs when…
The Third Stage of Labour
Chapter 19 The Third Stage of Labour Physiological processes During the third stage of labour, separation and expulsion of the placenta and membranes occur as the result of an interplay…
Metabolic Disturbances, Inborn Errors of Metabolism, Endocrine Disorders and Drug Withdrawal
Chapter 36 Metabolic Disturbances, Inborn Errors of Metabolism, Endocrine Disorders and Drug Withdrawal Metabolic disturbances Glucose homeostasis Following birth there is a fall in glucose concentration. At the same time…
The Second Stage of Labour
Chapter 18 The Second Stage of Labour The nature of transition and second-stage phases of labour The second stage of labour is the phase between full dilatation of the cervical…
Physical Problems and Complications in the Puerperium
Chapter 25 Physical Problems and Complications in the Puerperium The need for women-centred and women-led postpartum care The woman’s social and ethnic environment should take into account their individual perceptions…
Multiple Pregnancy
Chapter 16 Multiple Pregnancy The term ‘multiple pregnancy’ is used to describe the development of more than one fetus in utero at the same time. Twin pregnancy Types of twin…
Trauma During Birth, Haemorrhage and Convulsions
Chapter 33 Trauma During Birth, Haemorrhage and Convulsions Trauma to skin and superficial tissues Skin Damage to the skin may result from forceps blades, vacuum extractor cups, scalp electrodes and…
Prolonged Pregnancy and Disorders of Uterine Action
Chapter 20 Prolonged Pregnancy and Disorders of Uterine Action Post-term or prolonged pregnancy Risks and clinical implications of post-term pregnancy Post-term pregnancy is one that is in excess of 287 days…
The Female Pelvis and the Reproductive Organs
Chapter 1 The Female Pelvis and the Reproductive Organs The female pelvis The normal pelvis is comprised of four pelvic bones: two innominate bones one sacrum one coccyx. The innominate…
The Healthy Low-Birth-Weight Baby
Chapter 30 The Healthy Low-Birth-Weight Baby Classification of babies by weight and gestation Definitions of low birth weight are based upon weight alone and do not consider the gestational age…
