Midwifery Philosophy
The practice of midwifery is based on the understanding that pregnancy, labour and birth are profound experiences which carry significant meaning for an individual, their family and their community. Midwifery is grounded in the principles of health and wellbeing, recognizing that conception, pregnancy, birth and newborn feeding are natural life processes. Midwifery is traditionally wholistic, combining an understanding of the social, emotional, cultural, spiritual, psychological and physical aspects of a woman’s reproductive experience. Midwives promote wellness in mothers, babies and families both autonomously and in collaboration with other health care professionals.
Midwifery is a partnership based on mutual respect. With midwifery care, the client is the center of the childbirth experience and has great influence on their own health and wellbeing. The practice of midwifery is based on the individual, recognizing each client’s unique strengths and needs. Midwifery care promotes self-care, growth, awareness and confidence, and is provided in a manner that is flexible, creative, empowering and supportive.
Midwifery actively encourages informed choice throughout the childbearing cycle by providing relevant, objective information to facilitate decision-making. The practice of midwifery enables individuals to develop the understanding, skills and motivation necessary to take on the responsibility for and control of their own health. ( Alberta Association of Midwives)
- Primary Health Care: Midwives are autonomous primary health care providers. Clients need not consult with additional maternity care providers during a normal non-complicated pregnancy.
- Partnership:: Midwives engage in a supportive partnership with clients throughout their care.
- Continuity of Care: A client is cared for by a single midwife or small group of midwives. This provides continuity of care-provide, and fosters a relationship of familiarity and trust.
- Informed Choice: Midwives offer informed choice and recognize the right of each person to be the primary decision maker about their care.
- Birth Setting Choice Midwives respect the clients right to choose where they will give birth and provide care to their clients in the setting of their choice.
- Evidence-based: Midwifery practice is informed by research, evidence-based guidelines, clinical experience, and the unique values and needs of those in their care.
- Collaborative: Midwives may work collaboratively within creative interdisciplinary models of practice with other healthcare professionals as needed.