The History of Midwifery

As the human race evolved, women turned to others to help in labor and delivery. During some time in pre-history, this established the profession of the midwife. In fact, historians stress that midwifery has played an important historic role in all cultures from the earliest times. In early English language, the term "midwife" meant "with woman," or someone who supports rather than intervenes in the birth experience. In some countries, as France, the word midwife is translated as "wise woman," or "sage femme." The World Health Organization distinguishes midwifery for its continual health care of women and infants worldwide.

Bible

• The Bible contains many verses about midwifery. For example, the Egyptian midwives defied the Pharaoh's mandate to kill the Hebrew's newborn sons. Exodus 1:15-22 reads "if the midwife sees a boy on the delivery stool, he should be killed; if it is a girl, she may live." Later, in Genesis 35, Rachel recalls Joseph's birth with the midwives' help: "When she was in labor, the midwife told Rachel not to be afraid, she is having another son." Early Chinese and Hindu writings also mentioned midwives.

Roman and Greek Civilization

• During early Greek and Roman history, midwives were recognized as respected caregivers for women, not only at times of delivery, but throughout the childbearing years. Even Socrates' mother is believed to have been a midwife. The profession became more clearly defined at this time, and the midwives needed certain qualifications to administer their duties. For instance, Greek midwives were required to have borne their own children. This requirement continues with many cultures today.

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Medieval Times

• Throughout the Dark and Middle Ages, midwives relied on a variety of herbs and potions, which are seen as the forerunner of present-day medicine. The midwives gained their knowledge and learned their specific skills as apprentices to someone more experienced in the field. There was no formal "school," so the information was passed down through the generations. Both midwives and women in general were not highly esteemed. The mothers were still blamed for all cases of infertility.

Renaissance

• Midwifery nearly disappeared during the late Middle Ages and the Renaissance when Midwives were accused of witchery and the surgeons took over the role of childbirth. Many of these women patients died, however, because the doctors delivered the baby without washing their hands from an earlier body dissection. Over time, the role of midwifery once again established itself as an important role.

1940s

• It was not until 1944, with the publication of "Childbirth Without Fear" by Grantley Dick-Reed, that the profession of midwifery was closely studied. The book covered how midwives supported women through labor and delivery and the child could be born with relaxation methods rather than medicine or ether.
  He also concluded that women who were unafraid of delivery had less medical problems.

1980s

• It was not until the 1980s, however, that birthing centers and home births were once again accepted. However, to this day in the United States, hospital birth is still considered by most people as the best alternative. Yet many couples now look at all their options and choose what they consider meets their personal, emotional and physical needs most.