Midwives are autonomous professionals whose unique and specialist contribution affects the whole population: each of us at the time of birth, the great majority of people who become parents and the half of these who become mothers. Women and their families expect a service that provides clear communication and explanations, effective teamwork, a safe care environment and continuity of care. The midwife’s role is to ensure that these expectations are understood and met. Midwives, in partnership with other members of the multidisciplinary team – for example, obstetricians, general practitioners, health visitors/public health practitioners and maternity support workers/maternity care assistants – face the challenge of meeting the.
