In order to become skilled and competent practitioners, student midwives need to understand the complex individual, family and societal issues they will encounter. By introducing the contemporary context of midwifery practice, this book helps students to understand the problems many women face in society. The book covers topics including violence, mental and sexual health, the rising obesity epidemic and increases in numbers of women from non-UK countries. The authors emphasise the fact that students need to be aware of their public health responsibilities and discuss various health promotion strategies.

A midwife's heartwarming and inspirational true story Catching Babies is a moving account of an extraordinary career. It reveals the unique experiences that filled midwife Sheena Byrom's days as she looked after mums and dads and helped to bring their precious babies into the world. From her very first day as a nervous student nurse in Blackburn to the dedicated completion of her midwifery qualifications in Burnley, Sheena has never once looked back, enjoying a thirty-five-year career with the NHS. At the forefront of evolving medical practices, she was the first midwife to oversee a home water birth in her area, but also found herself at the centre of a traumatic delivery that tested her to her limits. Yet, whatever has come Sheena's way, ultimately, there are the strong mothers who taught her so much and the little miracles who have made every single moment as a midwife truly magical.

Few experiences can compare to the trauma and pain of losing a baby; and the wall of silence that often surrounds that loss can make grieving even harder. Loving You From Here explores the traumatic impact of losing a baby through stillbirth and neonatal death. It features the moving stories of multiple families; some affected recently, some decades ago, but still living with the loss. This book is a practical guide for grieving parents in the grips of tragedy, and those around them who want to be able to offer support. From managing those initial feelings of shock, grief, guilt and anger, this book will also show families how it is possible to grow around that grief and eventually form an enduring bond with their baby. This profound and insightful book will help everyone impacted by the loss of a baby - before, during or after birth - including those who have suffered an early or a late miscarriage and those who have had an ectopic pregnancy, and provides sensitive and reassuring advice on all aspects of loss and bereavement, as well as practical advice on how to find a new normal. This groundbreaking book breaks through the suffocating silence that surrounds the death of a baby and gives a voice to all those affected by baby loss.

Since childbirth became a medicalized - and usually hospitalized - event a century ago, women's and families' psychosocial needs have been relegated to a somewhat peripheral role within the clinically focussed hierarchy of medical care. This text reinstates psychosocial issues as a primary focus of care, together with clinical excellence. Family-centred care is a familiar phrase in today's maternity services, with professional guidelines and hospital policies including the term in their care protocols; however, few definitions, and no specific standards, for family-centred care exist. While all caregivers and care services are likely to define their care as sensitive to women's needs, and family-centred, the actual implementation of a family-centred approach - despite it being a current fashion in care - is still inadequate. This book clearly defines family-centred perinatal care, and outlines how truly family-centred care can, and should, be implemented, and how, and where, this has been done.

No sleep for twenty hours. No food for ten. And a ward full of soon-to-be mothers… Welcome to the life of a midwife.

Life on the NHS front line, working within a system at breaking point, is more extreme than you could ever imagine. From the bloody to the beautiful, from moments of utter vulnerability to remarkable displays of strength, from camaraderie to raw desperation, from heart-wrenching grief to the pure, perfect joy of a new-born baby, midwife Leah Hazard has seen it all.

Through her eyes, we meet Eleanor, whose wife is a walking miracle of modern medicine, their baby a feat of reproductive science; Crystal, pregnant at just fifteen, the precarious, flickering life within her threatening to come far too soon; Star, birthing in a room heady with essential oils and love until an enemy intrudes and Pei Hsuan, who has carried her tale of exploitation and endurance thousands of miles to somehow find herself at the open door of Leah’s ward.

Moving, compassionate and intensely candid, Hard Pushed is a love letter to new mothers and to Leah’s fellow midwives – there for us at some of the most challenging, empowering and defining moments of our lives.

Infancy: The Basics offers an introduction to the developmental science behind the fascinating world of infant development. This book takes the reader from before birth through the moment infants come into the world seemingly unable to do much but eat, eliminate, and sleep, and across the few short, incredible years, to when infants are walking, talking, thinking humans with clear preferences, wishes, and dreams, having already forged strong long-lasting relationships. Dispelling common myths and misconceptions about how infants' perception, cognition, language, and personalities develop, this accessible evidence-based book takes a novel whole-child approach and provides insight into the joint roles of nature (biology) and nurture (experiences) in infant development, how to care for babies to give them the best start in life, and what it means for infants to become thinking communicating social partners. Topics in this book are covered with an eye firmly fixed on how infants' first years set the stage for the rest of their lives. By helping us understand infants, experts Marc H. Bornstein and Martha E. Arterberry give us the opportunity to learn about the resiliency of our species and the many different contexts in which families rear infants. They cover key topics, including how babies are studied scientifically, prenatal development and the newborn period, how infants explore and understand the world around them, how infants begin to communicate, how infants develop an emotional life, personality, and temperament, how infants build relationships, and how parents succeed in bringing up babies in challenging circumstances. This concise clear guide to the years from before birth to 3 is for students of developmental psychology, pediatric medicine and nursing, education, and social work. It also for all parents and professionals caring for infants, who want to understand the secret world of infancy.

A research-based, up-to-the minute account of the current status of antenatal education, focusing on the key challenges it faces in the future, offering suggestions for how these challenges might best be met. It describes some innovative approaches to accessing vulnerable groups of parents and how collaboration between the statutory and voluntary sectors might result in a better educational service for pregnant women and their families. Narratives from parents are analysed and commented upon, and underpinning the book will be an account of how the principles and practices of adult education should inform antenatal education. Demonstrates the potential for antenatal education to make a positive impact on women's experience of birth Points the way to accessing new sources of funding for antenatal classes Illustrates new teaching strategies with the aim of accessing groups of parents currently not involved with antenatal education Aims to show how antenatal education can be a central, rather than peripheral part of the holistic care provided to pregnant women and their families

With statistics showing that 1 in 5 women have experienced some form of sexual abuse, it is likely that all birth professionals will support a survivor of such abuse at some point during their career. This book provides practical advice for those supporting these women throughout their pregnancy, labour, and postnatal periods. The impact of past sexual abuse on women during these periods is often underestimated, and this book shows the need for greater compassion and understanding in maternity services regarding this issue. Drawing on a vast range of research and expertise, this book includes details on the identifiable behaviours of survivors, how to respond when someone says they are a survivor, positive stories, and appropriate language to use. This book is for any care provider who wants to help pregnancy, childbirth and the postnatal period become a healing experience for those carrying trauma, and to support these survivors with compassion, respect and kindness.

This textbook is written in line with the Council of International Neonatal Nurses, Inc. (COINN) vision for global unity for neonatal nursing. The core values and goals of COINN are based on excellence and advocacy for high quality newborn care, as well as respecting diversity by integrating cultural norms and values among the care of newborns and their families. The book promotes neonatal nursing as a global speciality through evidence, research, and education of neonatal nurses; and offers key examples of the millennium goals and global outcomes, as well as variations in outcomes for babies. The first part focuses on global perspectives of neonatal nursing from different continents aligning with the World Health Organizations' global regions: (The Americas -USA, Canada and South America-, Western Pacific region -Australia and New Zealand-, European region -UK and Europe-, African region, South-East Asia and Eastern Mediterranean region. For each region, education and competencies, challenges and opportunities, research and evidence-based practice (EBP) as well as practice regulations are described. The second part elaborates on key topics for neonatal nursing across the globe, such as the continuity of neonatal care in the community, patient and family centered care in neonatal settings, sleep and brain development, the fundamental care needs of the neonate and family and global perspectives on hypothermia, hypoglycaemia and hypoxia. Written in a formal academic but reader style, using key literature and evidence, this textbook enables an understanding from a large audience with academic levels and experience, both staff and students, bedside nurses, advanced practice nurses, midwifes and allied professionals. In addition, first person story based reflective narrative are interspersed throughout the book to capture the perspectives of nurses, staff and parents, in the form of vignettes. This textbook is aimed at neonatal nurses across the world as well as current and aspiring students in this field.

This popular guide uses illustrations and concise, integrated text to describe the essentials of obstetric practice today. From the physiology of reproduction through antenatal care and disorders in pregnancy to labour and the puerperium period, readers will find an easy-to-grasp presentation of the field's most important issues. Features nearly 20 new line drawings to show the latest in obstetric practice. All other illustrations and content thoroughly revised and updated. New material includes: Current uses and types of IUCDs (including the Mirena IUS); Management of early pregnancy including ectopic pregnancy; Preterm labour; and Ventouse (to include Kiwi-style Ventouse Cup).

This is Volume 5 in the Midwifery: Best Practice series. Each of the volumes in this Series is built around the familiar core of four main topic areas relevant to midwifery: pregnancy, labour / birth, postnatal and stories / reflection - and also includes a number of 'focus on.' sections. These are different in each volume and reflect a wide range of key and topical issues within midwifery. Each volume builds upon the others to provide a comprehensive library of articles that shows the development of thought in key midwifery areas. Volume 5 offers a range of wholly new topic areas within the 'focus on.' sections covering: 'the birthing environment', 'women, midwives and risk', 'holistic health' and 'working/international stories'. A practical reference source containing a wide range of articles, research and original material in an easily accessible format Volume 5 offers a more interactive learning experience by inviting midwives to create their own questions before reading the articles, and then returning to these afterwards for reflective thought Diverse opinions on selected topics provide a comprehensive resource for debate and discussion Unique approach includes ideas on how to turn reading into professional development activities Includes 60 articles from The Practising Midwife (2004-5);4 research articles from Midwifery (2004-5); 3 articles from The Journal of Midwifery and Women's Health (2003-5); and 5 original articles commissioned for this book. . 60 articles from The Practising Midwife (2004-05). . 4 research articles from Midwifery (2004-05). . 3 articles from The Journal of Midwifery and Women's Health 2003-05 . 5 original articles commissioned for this book.

Midwives and other healthcare providers are grappling with the issue of rising intervention rates in childbirth and trying to identify ways to reverse the trend. It is increasingly accepted that intervention in childbirth has long-term consequences for women and their children. Birth Territory provides practical, evidence-based ideas for restructuring the birth territory to facilitate normal birth. Links new research findings to birth environments and outcomes. Describes the elements of an ideal birthing environment. Suggests how to modify existing maternity services to achieve optimal results. Investigates the links between the experiences of women and babies, and outcomes. Explores the effects of legal and socio-political factors.

The technologies that underpin antenatal investigations are changing rapidly and it is essential that midwives and all health professionals involved in antenatal care are informed about current research and have the skills needed to understand the tests they instigate. Midwife's Guide to Antenatal Investigations explores a comprehensive range of investigations used in pregnancy. It links routine antenatal care with specialist investigations, describing when follow up is required and how to interpret results. The book is written in a clear, accessible style and explains all terminology as well as discussing the relevant technological developments. The book is an ideal source of reference in clinical situations and is designed to enable the midwife to make evidence-based decisions. Antenatal testing can reveal problems or abnormalities with the fetus and the midwife then faces the difficult task of giving this news to the parents. The authors have provided guidance on how to approach discussions on particularly sensitive issues and advise on how a midwife can provide non-intrusive support when parents receive bad news. A chapter written by the charity Antenatal Results and Choices gives an account of parents' experiences when an abnormality was diagnosed in their baby. This gives direct insight into the parents' feelings and helps the midwife to understand how best to provide the sensitive care needed in such cases. The fundamental principles underlying genetic and chromosomal testing are explored and the authors consider the historical and cultural aspects of antenatal investigations as well as looking forward to the potential impact of these technologies on the future role of the midwife. This book is an essential resource for all health professionals involved in delivering antenatal care to women and their families. The only book of its kind, developed to provide midwives with a comprehensive guide to antenatal investigations in an accessible format. Includes a range of clinical scenarios and considers the parents' point of view, which brings the tests to life and helps midwives understand the clinical application and impact of investigations. A chapter written by the national charity ARC (Antenatal Results and Choices) relates first-hand accounts from parents whose newborns have been diagnosed with an abnormality, providing insight into how best to provide sensitive care to parents facing difficult situations. Extensive illustrations, diagrams, summary tables and ultrasound scan images make the information in the book clear and understandable. Best practice guidance from National Screening Committee (NSC) are provided to ensure all practitioners are aware of the NSC policy. Clinical guidance is supported by explanations of common and specialist terminology and developments in technology. The fundamental principles underlying genetic and chromosomal testing are described. The historical and cultural aspects of antenatal investigations are discussed, as well as the potential impact of these technologies on the future role of the midwife.

Myles Professional Studies for Midwifery Education and Practice Concepts and Challenges explores the non-clinical areas of the midwifery curriculum (e.g. law, ethics, leadership, employer-led supervision and professional development) in a helpful, user-friendly format brought to readers by a team of experts under the guidance of Jayne Marshall, editor of Myles Textbook for Midwives. The volume will be suitable for all student midwives, whether undertaking pre-registration education programmes or post-graduate studies, as well as practising midwives preparing for revalidation and/or undertaking CPD. Whilst prepared predominantly by contributors from the UK, Myles Professional Studies for Midwifery Education and Practice Concepts and Challenges will be suitable for an international readership. Specialist contributors ensure accuracy and currency of key information Underlying theory supported by a rich array of helpful learning features such as 'real-life' case studies and reflective activities Includes the latest initiatives such as employer-led supervision and the principles of coaching Includes a section on the ICM and EU standards of education and international regulation covering the USA, Australia, New Zealand, Africa, Denmark and Norway Explores the global context of the midwife's scope of practice with specific examples from the UK, Canada and the USA Includes discussion of CPD and overseas careers opportunities Annotated reading lists and significant websites provide additional sources of information

The book looks at a broad perspective of decision making and each chapter focuses on a specific aspect related to making crucial decisions. Following an initial introduction the book explores the concept of autonomy and the many factors that influence autonomous practise. The role of knowledge in decision making, using evidence to inform decisions, as well as different approaches to decision making are also examined - including the traditional or rational approach, decision analysis and the development of professional judgement. Dilemmas arise when decisions are made and therefore ethical decision making is an important component of this book. Management decisions may be different from those related to giving specific care to women, hence one chapter focuses on making management decisions. Emphasis is also placed on the role of the midwife in helping women make their own decisions, the role of reflection in enhancing the decisions midwives make and the support midwives can receive from their Supervisor of Midwives. Flowcharts explain and facilitate the decision-making process. A very practical approach to decision-making in midwifery, with contributions from midwives who have considerable experience in this area Provides guidelines on how to achieve successful autonomous midwifery practice, enabling theory to be effectively applied to practice Includes coverage of management roles and decision-making as well as clinical scenarios, offering frameworks and flowcharts to guide the inexperienced Suggests different approaches to making difficult decisions

This U.K. book is written by Faye Thompson, who has thirty years experience as a midwife and educator. She studied philosophy and the humanities as an undergraduate in Australia, and now lectures on health care ethics. As a feminist, she seeks to reunite morality and personal interest so that the woman is not subordinated in women's health and childbirth practices.
From this experience, she offers a framework of ethics specific to midwifery and derived from midwifery practice that takes ethical discourse beyond current literature, proposing strategies for ethical practice based on findings arising out of the profession itself.

This is a comprehensive and practical guide to all aspects of breastfeeding babies with special care needs. The language is clear and direct and the references up to date. The author covers the basics of breastfeeding and lactation, positioning and attachment, milk supply, the impact of common drugs, as well as breast conditions and problems and their resolution. Particular attention is paid to feeding the vulnerable baby and to alternative methods of feeding.Crystal clear and practical in writing and approach Full coverage of a topic which is poorly covered elsewhere Simple and explanatory with helpful up-to-date drawings, tables and photographs New material and expanded/updated current chapters Tackles issues which all midwives and neonatal intensive care nurses have to face at some point This revised edition includes new material on:the instinctive nature of breastfeeding at birth skin-to-skin contact and care many new concepts relating to positioning and attachment how long it takes to acquire these skills non-nutritive sucking breast conditions, especially sore and cracked nipples areolar massage breastfeeeding and HIV

Leading Antenatal Classes second edition takes a practical approach to antenatal education. It leads the reader step by step through a range of issues involved with leading classes, including the role of the class leader, planning and monitoring course content, teaching aids and active learning techniques.Expanded, updated and fully referenced new edition of this popular text aimed primarily at midwives Describes in detail a range of tried and tested practical approaches to inspire both new and experienced class leaders Written by authors with extensive experience of leading antenatal classes and training health professionals to lead classes

How can future parents best be prepared for parenting? And what kind of support and help can health professionals really give all parents? This book explores the skills that health professionals need in order to support parents' efforts to be "good enough" . It looks at the basic skills of adult education and how these can be applied, and it also takes a practical approach to the realistic support health professionals can give. The book looks not only at the needs of every parent but also of those with particular needs and issues. It asks and attempts to answer:what are the challenges facing parents who adopt a child? How does it feel to have carried, given birth to and parent a child whose genetic material is not your own? What are the most effective ways of communicating with parents who have learning difficulties? How can you help the parent of a child with a disability to celebrate the child rather than focus on the disability? How can women in prison be helped to make the transition to motherhood? Each chapter will include both a theoretical and a practical element. Hugely topical and key area for healthcare currently Based on a "real world" perspective and offers realistic aims Examples of and/or suggestions for good practice Assist readers in acquiring educational skills, which can be used to help parents achieve optimum parenting. Well-known and respected editor and contributors working in this field

Pregnant Women: Violent Men is written by an experienced midwifery educator and health professional, and by a social scientist and Open University Lecturer who has considerable experience in supporting women who survive violence. Case studies and scenarios illustrate how to apply theory to clinical midwifery practice, taking into account contemporary society, exploring the causes of violence and focusing on violence in pregnancy and childbirth. Pregnant Women: Violent Men is an essential purchase for every midwife and health care professional involved in offering childbearing women care and support. * Offers sound advice and ideas on how the midwife can support, influence and stand alongside women as they experience both childbirth and the crime of domestic violence; and discusses who else can help, including the law and the Women's Aid network * Explores the shape of society and examines the roots of violence * Sensitively considers the role of the midwife when faced with domestic violence among childbearing women

This updated and expanded edition of The Pregnant Drug Addict (1995) explores the difficulties of managing the maternity care of those who are drug dependent. Catherine Siney has brought together a number of specialists whose combined expertise provides an essential guide to this problematic subject. Key issues include the medical and obstetric problems of mothers, the consequences for the child, pregnant women who are HIV positive or have hepatitis B, outreach work and counselling.