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A consumer viewpoint

Abstract:

I will speak of some of the areas concerning childbirth which I consider to be of particular concern to women at the present time and some of those which I have observed and learned from sharing experiences with women during my contact with the women's health movement over the past 15 years. Although there is need for a great deal of further change I wish to acknowledge the willingness of midwives as a group, to respect women's wishes and to respond to their needs. It is my belief that the effectiveness of a good midwife lies in her ability to learn from women, gaining an increase in insight and intuitive skills. So the optimum encounter is the two way one where each has something to share and something to learn. This provides the grounds for an empowering partnership. However, we have taken some time to come this far to restore the rifts and to overcome the barriers which have often felt insurmountable.

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consumer representation, informed choice, medicalisation, partnership