These standards were developed by the European Board and College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (EBCOG), a representative body of 36 countries in Europe, to improve outcomes and address issues of health service delivery. Produced after extensive consultation with stakeholders across Europe, including organisations representing women‘s interests, these standards have been approved by the societies of obstetrics and gynaecology in all EU/EEA member countries and beyond, and by the European Union of Medical Specialists (UEMS).

Based on the best available evidence and supported by a set of quality outcome indicators, these standards are an invaluable tool for commissioners of health services and health service providers to plan and deliver equitable, high-level, quality-assured care to women, their babies and their wider families. They take account of the full care pathway from pre-pregnancy, through pregnancy and possible complications, to postnatal and neonatal care. They also address requirements for the training and support of doctors and healthcare professionals.

These standards have been defined following exhaustive consultation, taking into account the different situations and circumstances in the EU28 Member States and other European countries that are members of EBCOG. This representative body is urging Ministries of Health across Europe to adopt these standards as an enormous step forward in improving access to, and the quality of women‘s health care within the EU and beyond and in ensuring that all women and their babies get the best possible care.