The third edition of A guide to effective care in pregnancy and childbirth will be invaluable to anyone involved in the care of pregnant women, and to expectant parents. This updated guide summarizes the most authoritative evidence available on the effects of care practices carried out during pregnancy, childbirth, and immediately after birth, in a clear and readily understandable format. In addition to the details provided in the text, the book concludes with six valuable tables that list the practices which are beneficial, those of unknown effectiveness, and those likely to be ineffective or harmful. Based on the most systematic review to date, this comprehensive guide presents the main findings and conclusions in an easily readable, inexpensive, and conveniently-sized form. This third edition has been completely updated to include the new research evidence available since publication of the previous edition. Previous editions have received critical acclaim for conclusions based on sound evidence and have become a unique reference source for evaluating care policies and practices.

From reviews of the previous editions: There are few books that can be considered 'essential' reading in obstetrics but this is certainly one of them. Maternal and Child Health A gem. It is one of those books that an owner will have to replace every year because it will have worn out from constant use... To say that this is book should be 'required reading' is not enough; it deserves 'required ownership'. Birth The editors set themselves an enormous task and have completed it superbly... It is an invaluable tool for anyone working with expectant parents... This is a book I should not like to be without; almost an NCT teacher's bible! New Generation Too good to be true! A condensed version at an affordable price. This is the midwives' bible. MIDIRS