For an anesthesiologist, though the challenge of managing an obstetric patient can be very satisfying and rewarding, it can also be extremely difficult given the potential for serious harm to the fetus and mother. For routine care, it is important to understand the risks and benefits of many practices to provide patients with informed decisions and the most satisfying experiences. There are also many less-usual patients and situations, however, that challenge the anesthesiologist's skills significantly. This issue of the Anesthesiology Clinics presents the most up-to-date information on both...