Infections Affecting Pregnancy and Childbirth

This second edition of Infections Affecting Pregnancy and Childbirth provides midwives and those caring for pregnant women with highly practical, readily accessible information on a wide range of infections. It outlines the vital role of the midwife in recognising infections, determining the risk to mother and baby, and ensuring timely and effective referral to medical practitioners and specialist care. The midwife has a key role in preventing the burden of infective illness whilst pregnant or soon after the birth through support, health education, vaccination, implementation of infection control measures, and general advice to women and their families. Key PointsBrings together the most recent developments in managing a range of infections that affect women and their babies around pregnancy, birth, and the postnatal periodIncludes the role of the midwife in recognising infectious illness and ensuring prompt referral to relevant specialist servicesIdentifies those at risk and prevents the burden and spread of infection