In this thesis, the primary aim was to gain insight into management of obstetric emergencies occurring in primary midwifery care in the Netherlands. Secondly, we aimed to develop preventative... Show moreIn this thesis, the primary aim was to gain insight into management of obstetric emergencies occurring in primary midwifery care in the Netherlands. Secondly, we aimed to develop preventative strategies and tools to optimise care in case of an obstetric emergency. From 2008-2010, a unique dataset of 198 cases of obstetric emergencies was provided by midwives working in primary care who participated in the __CAVE-Study__. We used both qualitative research (audit) as well as quantitative research methods. We studied preventative tools such as pulse oximetry in primary midwifery care and developed and assessed 25 quality indicators for the development of a multidisciplinary guideline for post-partum haemorrhage (PPH, defined as __ 1000 mL blood loss after childbirth) in the Netherlands. We have summarised and discussed the studies performed in relation to each other, both from the perspective of midwifery care in the Netherlands, but also as embedded in the Dutch obstetrical care system. Finally, we have made specific recommendations concerning the development of guidelines, cooporation and the use of technology in primary midwifery care Show less