2007 Volume 21 Issue 1 Pages 1_40-1_51
Purpose
The purpose of this study was to reconsider the role and responsibility of present midwives, through knowing the field of traditional midwives' activities.
Methods
The author interviewed an 82-year-old midwife whose career spanned two generations covering about 50 years while in private practice, from the 1910s to the 1960s. Seven interviews were conducted, with a total of 14 hours and 25 minutes from February 2004 to March 2005, and the comments were summarized into a life-history document.
Results
It was found that the practicing midwives in old times had a continuing close relationship with the mothers' families and the community, having knowledge of the circumstances and family environment of each pregnant woman. In addition to the ordinary maternal care, traditional midwives served as supporters and friends to the pregnant women, during both perinatal and postnatal periods, and pursued their role with a firm sense of mission.
Conclusion
From our interviews, we could postulate that midwives need to make their best effort in providing a sense of security and comfort to people, through an understanding of a person's feelings, along with the need of developing greater midwifery professional responsibility and improved clinical techniques.
