Over the last ten years, critical care units have been set up in many maternity units. This textbook is a comprehensive introduction to this emerging area of practice. It gives an overview of specific aspects of care which may be required by a woman undergoing a complicated pregnancy, or experiencing an illness or emergency which requires her to receive high dependency or critical care. Covering the context of care, relevant pathophysiology, signs and symptoms, specific assessment in detail, relevant drugs, assessment of the fetus, summaries of management, psychosocial support, and the specific professional responsibilities of the midwife, this is an essential guide for all midwives.