Introduction Vaginal examinations (VEs) are a common intervention performed during labour with the primary intent of assessing cervical dilatation as well as offering other information. While many clinicians challenge their…

Introduction Induction of labour (IOL), although a common procedure, can present challenges for both mothers and clinicians (National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE), 2001). Once women have passed…

Introduction Midwives must be able to resuscitate both the newborn baby and the mother, and therefore they should receive annual neonatal and maternal resuscitation training. This training should also cover…

Introduction Breech presentation is where the lie of the baby is longitudinal and the baby’s buttocks are in the lower segment of the mother’s uterus. Following the term breech trial…

Introduction Some women readily choose caesarean section (CS); some are reluctantly persuaded to undergo CS, and some have CS thrust suddenly upon them with, realistically, little chance to make any…

Introduction The news of a multiple pregnancy is often met with delight by both mothers and midwives. The rarity of twins and higher-order births ensures that they remain a somewhat…

Introduction Perinatal loss has been described as a life crisis for both parents and professionals alike (Gardner, 1999). The death of a baby is not uncommon at one every 200…

Introduction ‘Maternal morbidity caused by perineal trauma can have long term social, psychological and physical health consequences for women. Perineal pain and discomfort may disrupt breastfeeding, family life and sexual…

Introduction ‘The birth of a baby should be one of the most special and joyful experiences a family can have and yet every year thousands of families experience the pain…