Historical Findings
Some background information to get the mind working.
A History of Ontario Midwifery
https://www.jogc.com/article/S0849-5831%2898%2980058-X/pdf
The use of midwives is a controversial topic. Many 19th century doctors claimed midwives to be “unscientific” and “meddlesome” due to their lack of formal training. Midwives had previously been sought by women for comfort; having another woman with them, their skills, experiences, natural aptitude, and the fact that these women would have attended another number of other births. Midwifery faced extinction as medical norms shifted in the 19th century.
However, in the 70’s, there seems to have been a re-emergence of midwives reflecting the social and political climate of the times. The home birth movement “attempted to reclaim the social and emotional dimensions of childbirth that we so often stripped away by institutional authority”. Midwives from the 70s and 80s were in fact well-educated, had critiques against the current status quo, and were willing to participate in this change. As midwives and home births gained popularity the movement moved in the realm of recognized health services where educational opportunities had been created and the option to use a midwife become readily available.
In 1994, new legislation stated that registered midwives could now provide care on their own; order lab tests and ultrasounds, obtain hospital appointments, sign birth certificates, consult with other professionals, and receive payment for providing a service. To perform an at-home birth, the midwife must follow the College of Midwives’ standards. This determines the suitability for an at-home birth, plans for arranging hospital care, emergency treatments, and the need to discuss the pros and cons with the prospective parents.
The rest of this document goes on to talk about the laws/practices midwives must follow and the educations they must receive in accordance with Canadian law.
Childbirth Through the Decades
https://www.redbookmag.com/body/pregnancy-fertility/g3551/what-it-was-like-giving-birth-in-every-decade/ **US History
1900 - modern medicine still in its infancy and hospitals weren't readily available so many women were giving birth at home. Midwives were used by wealthy families but were increasingly replaced by doctors.
1910 - Many doctors didn't have formal medical training and many births were still done at home but with the aid of a doctor or midwife. Mothers had the option to be put to sleep for her pregnancy
"Twilight Sleep" gained popularity but was very dangerous.
1920 - Medical Revolution. Births were no longer a "natural process" and many medical procedures were used in hospitals.
Twilight Sleep still used.
1930 - Great Depression. Women still spent the money for a safer birth and nearly 75% of births were done in hospitals with doctors.
Twilight Sleep used with nearly every single birth but women started complaining about the drug effects.
1940 - WWII + Baby Boom. Twilight Sleep still common. However, there are now new medical advancements and Dr. Grantly Dick-Read published a book on the benefits of natural childbirth and less invasive methods.
Books published on human sexuality and reproductive organs meant that women had the chance to understand their bodies.
1950 - 90% of women were giving birth in the hospital. Women protesting both Twilight Sleep (didn't want to be unconscious during birth) and the way women were treated while under the drugs. The National Organization for Public Health Nursing emphasized pregnancy and childbirth as normal, healthy, and a family affair.
1960 - 99% of women gave birth in a hospital with doctors.
1970 - Many options available for women during labour/ birth relating to pain relief and interventions. Women encouraged to feel and be a part of the birthing process.
Twilight Sleep no longer used and replaced by better options.
1980 - The National Association of Childbearing Centers gave women the choice of where they gave birth; birthing center or at home with a midwife. The vast majority of women were still giving birth at home.
1990 - Vast majority of women still giving birth at home but a "Mother-Friendly" childbirth initiative was released focusing on the importance of a mother's health. Healthy mother = healthy baby.
2000 - Vast majority of women still giving birth at home. 30% of women had a c-section.
2010 - Vast majority of women still giving birth at home but the choice for at-home births or birth centers were growing in popularity.
80% of women want to go drug-free, have minimal interventions, and use the epidural (2/3 of women).
Ideas:
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