The Midwife's Tale: An Oral History from Handywoman to Professional Midwife

by Nicky Leap

Book by Leap, Nicky, Hunter, Billie

Genres: Nonfiction

215 pages, Hardcover

First published August 1, 1993

Reviews

[Caitlin · Rating 5 out of 5]

A really fascinating look at the history of midwifery and midwives in Britain and an examination of women’s lives and childbirth practices in the first half of the 20th century. Fascinating which aspects of care have changed and which have remained (or in some cases should have remained) the same; which aspects of midwifery care were and are valued. A reminder of the skills which have been lost and the many gains we have made. A sobering look at some of the horrors women had to endure in places. There is a lot that we can learn from some of the practices and attitudes of birth attendants in the not too distant past. 9/10

[Kirsten Cutler · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is an interesting historical fiction based on a diary written by a midwife who lived in the late 1600's; and it covers the time when York, England was besieged by rebels fighting against the Royalists who supported King Charles. Historian Sam Thomas brings this time very much to life.

[Penny · Rating 3 out of 5]

Quite interesting to read of midwifery practice and to see the way things have changed. It interests me to see the way breech and multiples were routinely dealt with as home births unlike today where they tend to be highly managed.

[Sadie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great read about the history of midwifery in the UK - must read for midwives!!