Philosophy of Care

Midwifery care is based on the understanding that childbearing is a healthy progression through the life cycle.

Midwives uphold pregnancy and childbirth as a state of health that is a normal physiological process, and a profound event in a person’s life. The key philosophies of midwifery are:

• Continuity of care
• Informed choice
• Choice of birth setting
• Collaboration with other health professionals.

Continuity of care is a philosophy and a process that enables midwives to develop a relationship with clients and provide safe, personalized care.

Midwives recognize pregnant women as the primary decision maker, while promoting shared responsibility between their family and other professionals involved in their care.

Midwives encourage informed choice by providing complete, relevant and objective information throughout the childbearing cycle in a supportive manner. This enables clients to develop understanding, responsibility and control over their own health and that of their newborn.

Midwives’ competency and willingness to attend a person in their choice of birthplace is essential to midwifery care. All people, regardless of their socio-economic circumstances, have a right to accessible, comprehensive midwifery care.

Midwives co-operate and consult with other health professionals to ensure the best possible care for clients. As a primary caregiver, midwives provide education, counseling, and advocacy to support their clients’ individual needs.

Fundamental to midwifery care is the respect and support provided to each individual so that they may give birth safely with power and dignity.