The purpose of this course is to equip the learner with advanced clinical knowledge and skills providing comprehensive midwifery care, focusing on the advanced aspects of pregnancy, labour, birth and postpartum period. The course integrates evidence-based practices in midwifery care through application of latest research and guidelines in decision-making to ensure optimal maternal and neonatal outcomes. It also aims to promote a holistic, patient-centred approach to midwifery, emphasizing the physical, emotional, and psychological well-being of the mother and newborn. The course emphasizes cultural competence and respect for diverse family structures and birthing preferences. It focuses on advanced clinical decision-making, critical thinking, and the ability to respond appropriately to emergencies in collaboration with other healthcare providers.

CLO 1: Describe the physiological changes that occur during each stage of labor.

CLO 2: Demonstrate proficiency in conducting assessments using a Partograph during labor.

CLO 3: Advocate for informed decision-making and support the preferences and needs of mothers and newborns.

CLO 4: Apply evidence-based guidelines and protocols in the assessment and management of labor and puerperium

Normal Labour: (Definition, physiological changes, stages of labour, mechanisms of labour, management of labour using a Partograph, Preparation for delivery, Conducting delivery, Care of the mother post-delivery, Episiotomies, placenta examination and abnormalities, Immediate care of the new-born (Apgar score, basic needs of the new-born, routine care, resuscitation of an asphyxiated neonate); 

Normal puerperium: (Definitions, physiological changes during puerperium, care of the breasts, management of puerperium; postnatal examinations, nutrition, exercises); 

Complications in labour: (Premature rupture of membranes, premature labour, mal-presentation and mal-positions, precipitate labour, obstructed labour, prolonged labour , disorders of powers; hypertonic and hypotonic uncoordinated contractions, cervical dystocia, Special obstetric procedures -induction and augmentation of labour, amniotomy, Assisted and operative deliveries vacuum extraction, forceps delivery, caesarean section);

Obstetric emergencies: (Severe Pre-eclampsia, Eclampsia, antepartum haemorrhage, shoulder dystocia, Amniotic fluid embolism, DIC,  acute inversion of the uterus, ruptured uterus, cord prolapse and presentation, postpartum haemorrhage, fetal and maternal distress).