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.