Obstetrics is a unique field of medical care because; in its uncomplicated or natural form; pregnancy; labour and delivery are not diseases; but normal physiological events constituting an integral part of human life. Three equally important facets form the basis of obstetrics: the needs of the pregnant woman; the wellbeing of the baby; and the ability to perform a medical intervention should either of these be threatened — before; during and after birth. Clinical obstetrics is an authoritative and up-to-date textbook dealing with current obstetric practice and focusing specifically on conditions and problems prevailing in South Africa. Clinical obstetrics covers a wide range of topics from physiological adaptations; diagnosis and management of normal pregnancy and delivery; to teratogenesis; red cell allo-immunisation; congenital abnormalities and pre-term labour. It also discusses the risks involved in poor progress in labour; abnormal fetal lie and presentation; viral infections and multiple pregnancies. There are separate sections for medical and surgical conditions; as well as diagnostic procedures. Clinical obstetrics is aimed primarily at medical students; but will also be of great value to nurses; registrars in obstetrics and gynaecology; general practitioners and specialists in this field.