Reconceiving midwifery

Midwifery in the developed world is in a state of ferment and change - a phenomenon referred to as the "new midwifery." "Reconceiving Midwifery" offers state-of-the-art analyses of the new midwifery as it is practiced.

The authors - social scientists and midwifery practitioners - reflect on regional differences in the emerging profession, providing a systematic account of its historical, local, and international roots, its evolving regulatory status, and the degree to which it has been integrated into health care systems.

They also examine the nature of midwifery training, accessibility, and effectiveness across diverse ethnic and socio-economic groups, highlighting the key issues facing the profession before, during, and in the immediate post-integration era in each province.