What is Midwifery Care?

The simplest definition of midwifery is "with woman", but truly, midwifery means different things to different people. For many, the Midwifery Model of Care is an attitude about women and how pregnancy and birth occur, and view that pregnancy and birth are normal events until proven otherwise. It is an attitude of giving and sharing information, of empowerment, and of respecting the right of a woman and her family to determine their own care.

Historically, midwives have always been around to help women give birth. Before physicians, midwives were the primary healers in their communities. They were the medicine women of their own cultures, and assisted families and women throughout their lives. In the Old Testament they were described as examples of the strength and faith in God. Midwives were once the nutritionists, herbalists, doctors, ministers, counselors all rolled into one 'profession'. Many feel they were the first holistic practitioners. Midwives were always available to help the poor, the women without medical care or the women who were the outcasts of their culture. Today, midwives take care of anyone who wishes to see them, but practice within the constraints of their medical and legal systems.

Today midwives are as diverse as the populations they serve. Over 70% of births in the world are attended by midwives. In the Netherlands , midwives deliver a majority of the babies. Other countries do not utilize midwives to their fullest potential. Each country worldwide has a slightly different view of midwifery, and of how midwives work within their communities.

*Midwifery care is based on a respect for pregnancy as a state of health, for childbirth as a normal process and a profound event in a woman's life.
*Informed Choice? The birthing woman is respected as the primary decision-maker. Midwives give information to help her make informed decisions.
*Choice of Birthplace? Midwives are willing to attend births in a variety of settings.
*Appropriate Use of Technology? Midwives give preventative care with the lowest intervention possible.
*Continuity of Care? A pregnant woman works with one caregiver throughout her course of care.

Shannon Pawson, CPM  Serving West Michigan.  Phone - 616-295-1128