[Communication in obstetrics]

In Obstetrics we are faced with the challenge of communicating in various situations, on the one hand conversations with pregnant women and parents-to-be. But also in the interdisciplinary setting, working together with midwives, neonatologists, anaesthetists, a good communication is crucial for patient satisfaction and safety. In a preoperative interview, for example prior to a planned Caesarean Section, it is important to convey information in a clear language, to evaluate how much information a patient needs at that moment and to find out how the patient deals with it. Time and again we are confronted with emotions. At best it is great joy and relief when everything went well, but often it is disappointment, anger, insecurity and grief. If a distressing emotion is perceived it is helpful addressing it, showing empathy and offering support. As a member of a team it is indispensable to pass on the correct and complete information (to everyone involved). Difficult situations require a briefing beforehand and a debriefing afterwards - especially when things went wrong. In cases of emergency a smooth communication is essential for a successful outcome. We present various conversational situations related to practice, which shall help improve communicational competence.