Midwives’ unique contribution to public health is that they work with women and their partners and families throughout pregnancy, birth and the postnatal period to provide safe, holistic care. For optimum effect, midwifery needs to be firmly rooted in the community where women and their partners live their lives. Midwives should have a good knowledge of the health and social care needs of the local community; be well networked into the local health and social care system; and be proactive in identifying women at risk, and engaging with the woman, her family and other services as appropriate. .
