This is a book about the psychological journey women make when they become pregnant, give birth and adjust to life after childbirth. The focus of the book is on three main issues: The experience for women, their families and caregivers, the psychologicalneeds of women and their families at this time and the best way for caregivers to meet these psychological needs. The contributions in this book should provoke thought, discussion and debate about the psychological side of maternity care, and ultimately enhance the psychological care that is given to women and their families before, during and after childbirth.Multidisciplinary approach to subject Includes key points for caregivers in each chapter Includes new researdch findings fron qualitative and quantitative studies Includes comprehensive reviews of current literature