This is the first book on communication skills to explore the more challenging contexts and circumstances that midwives encounter in practice. As these occur infrequently and often unexpectedly in the daily practice of many midwives, they may find it difficult to communicate effectively to alleviate the situation. Knowing what to say and how to say it is part of this dilemma.

The book uses case vignettes, reflective questions, illustrations, tools and techniques to provide the evidence base needed to cope effectively in a range of situations by offering support to enhance your communication skills.

Communication Skills for Midwives explores challenges relating to:

Negotiating with others within inter-professional and inter-agency teams
Working with minority groups
Breaking significant news when labour threatens the life of a baby
Telling parents that their baby has an abnormality
Coping with loss and bereavement
Addressing issues of domestic abuse
Importantly the book provides information on how thoughts and feelings may be expressed both through body language and in words. Taking a practical and problem solving approach, the book will help you to enhance your learning and improve interaction with your colleagues, the women you care for and their families.