The role of the midwife is varied, rewarding and challenging. Not only do midwives practice autonomously in a variety of settings, but they often take the lead role in more complex childbirth situations. This book is the first labour and birth handbook written by experienced midwives and aimed specifically at practising midwives based in hospitals, the community and birthing centres. It details the most up-to-date information concerning midwifery care and offers guidance on how to deal with difficult and sometimes controversial situations. As well as this, The Midwife's Labour and Birth Handbook contains a wealth of intrapartum support information, reference material and diagrams.