Managing complications in pregnancy and childbirth: A guide for midwives and doctors - Second Edition

Overview

Since the first edition was published in 2000, Managing Complications in Pregnancy and Childbirth has been translated into several languages and today is used widely in training for and the provision of emergency obstetric care. The new edition brings the guidance in the manual into line with WHO’s current recommendations for emergency obstetric and newborn care.

While most pregnancies and births are uneventful, all pregnancies are at risk. Around 15% of all pregnant women will develop a potentially life-threatening complication that calls for skilled care, and some will require a major obstetrical intervention to survive. This manual is written for midwives and doctors at the district hospital who are responsible for the care of women with complications of pregnancy, childbirth or the immediate postpartum period, including immediate problems of the newborn.

Please note – Since the publication of this practice guide, WHO has updated several of the recommendations herein included.  We refer you to more recent WHO publications for specific recommendations. These two compilation documents may facilitate your search for specific recommendations -

WHO recommendations on maternal health: guidelines approved by the WHO Guidelines Review Committee - https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/WHO-MCA-17.10

WHO recommendations on newborn health: guidelines approved by the WHO Guidelines Review Committee - https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/WHO-MCA-17.07