Working with home birth - Swedish midwives' experiences

Abstract

Objective: The aim was to describe Swedish midwives' experiences of working with home birth.

Methods: Two focus group interviews were conducted with eight home birth-attending midwives. Data were analysed with qualitative content analysis.

Results: Four main categories were identified: the birth as a meaningful moment; to fully focus on the birth; to practise the craft; and not to be part of the health care system. The midwives viewed childbirth as a significant moment that should be conducted on the woman's terms. Working with home birth enabled them to work at their own pace and focus fully on the woman. During home births, they learned more about normal birth, and developed their practical skills and professional knowledge with little reliance on technology. They did, however, not feel fully accepted in the maternity care system.

Conclusion: This study contributes to the discussion about midwives' experiences of working with home birth in contexts where home birth is not covered by public health care. The study shows that the work environment influences how midwives perform their craft, how they follow and support normal birth, and how the birth setting influence valuing their work.

Keywords: Experience; Home birth; Midwife; Normal birth; Practical skills; Work environment.