The demands on doctors and nurses in South Africa and other developing countries are completely different to those in the first world, where most OBGYN books are produced. Difficult issues around abortion and HIV/Aids contribute to the magnitude and complexity of the field. A straightforward, patient's-bedside manual is long overdue. This handbook, written by contributors from at least five of the seven South African medical schools, serves as a mini-textbook as well as a clinical manual.