The Midwife Said Fear Not: A History of Midwifery in the United States

by Joyce E. Thompson, Helen Varney

Written by two of the profession's most prominent midwifery leaders, this authoritative history of midwifery in the United States, from the 1600s to the present, is distinguished by its vast breadth and depth. The book spans the historical evolution of midwives as respected, autonomous health care workers and midwifery as a profession, and considers the strengths, weaknesses, threats, and opportunities for this discipline as enduring motifs throughout the text. It surveys the roots of midwifery, the beginnings of professional practice, the founding of educational institutions and professional organizations, and entry pathways into the profession. Woven throughout the text are such themes as the close link between midwives and the communities in which they live, their view of pregnancy and birth as normal life events, their efforts to promote health and prevent illness, and their dedication to serving women wherever they may be and in whatever health condition and circumstances they may be in. The text examines the threats to midwifery past and present, such as the increasing medicalization of childbearing care, midwifery's lack of a common identity based on education and practice standards, the inconsistencies in its legal recognition as a profession, and reimbursement issues for midwifery practice. Illustrations and historical photos depict the many facets of midwifery, and engaging stories provide cultural and spiritual context. This is a "must-have" for all midwives, historians, professional and educational institutions, and all those who share a passion for the history of midwifery and women. KEY

528 pages, Paperback

First published November 28, 2015

Reviews

[Meagan Thompson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Comprehensive review of the history of midwifery in the United States. This book also discusses the educational history of midwifery in the US up to current times.

[Karen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Hard to rate a book that is a lot like a textbook. Some of it is interesting. However, both of the authors were present for much of what occurred, so they are writing their memories of discussions and meetings and including too much detail.

[Mills College Library]

618.20097 V318 2016