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In pursuit of 'warmth' in practice

Abstract:

Giving birth is a powerful experience. Women retain vivid memories of their labour and birth, sometimes decades later (Simkin, 1992). The midwife’s part in the birth story is important because she is the health professional who spends a significant amount of time with a labouring woman. Her actions or words can have a profound effect on whether or not the experience is a positive one. Some midwives stand out by virtue of their ability to establish a real rapport with most women in their care. What is it about the kind of relationship established with a woman that sets some practitioners apart from their colleagues? How do some midwives appear to develop an extra level of intimacy with women? We can call to mind midwives who would fit this description. Identifying what qualities they possess, or maybe what personality traits they display, is more difficult. The added dimension that these midwives bring to their midwifery relationships, however, is apparent to midwives and women alike.

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midwife qualities, midwifery relationships, partnership, trust