Approaches to theory building in midwifery

Abstract

Working as ‘skilled companion’ to the woman, the midwife should combine clinical skills and scientific knowledge with a sensitivity to this significant event: the start of a new life. In accompanying the woman and her partner on the journey to parenthood, midwives should help women to exercise choice and control over their bodies and the birth of their babies. By renewing approaches to practice while drawing on tradition, we may find promise in the future of the profession for women, families and midwives. (Page, 1993, p. 24)