A study of theories, concepts, and research related to the intrapartal and postpartal phases of the maternity cycle. Emphasis will be on the normal aspects during labor, birth, and the postpartum, common variations in normal, deviations from normal, fetal status during labor and the immediate period following birth, and enhancement of the pregnant family's childbirth experience. Focus will be on the theoretical aspects of nurse-midwifery management in the care of the family during the intrapartal phase and postpartal phase of the maternity cycle.