SOCIOLOGY FOR MIDWIVES

Sociology for Midwives

Sociology for Midwives

Introduction

To begin analysing the work of midwives from sociological perspective it is important to first understand the scope of sociology. Sociology allows individuals to determine the social context of human life; it tends to evaluate human environment and its relations to human life (Newman, 2004, pp. 5-16). It is the study of consequences of human behaviour; it helps to address the most challenging issues of human life ranging from crime, business, emotions and education reforms and so on (Childress et al, 2005, pp. 102-105). It enables human to understand beliefs of different culture in society their relevance, it ranges from sociology of work to sociology of sports. Midwifery is the profession that provides healthcare services to pregnant woman, they are responsible for taking care of these women during their pregnancy time and provide them assistance with labour and delivery of the child, and consequently they also provide guidance during postpartum period. It is important for childbearing women to consult midwives to ensure low-risk pregnancy (Hatem, 2009, pp.3).

Sociological and cultural belief of different societies may vary and therefore women may often not consult these specialists for getting healthcare services during their pregnancy period. Midwifery has developed over time and has become a profession women today acquire training to remain competent and provide effective care to the pregnant woman. Social status of individuals may also affect the decision of individuals to consult midwives. The income level of individuals may also influence the decision that is made for accessing the healthcare services provided by midwives (Ali, 2004, pp. 42-45). Women belonging to developed societies are more aware of the need for consulting midwife as they are trained and acquire sufficient knowledge relevant to the field of childbearing. However in most of the developing countries women fail to determine the significance of hiring the services of midwives for providing them with better healthcare opportunities. Certain societies might also be male dominated, and therefore women may often not be given the authority to make the decision regarding consulting midwifery.

Childbearing cannot be studied only from a biological perspective; however it is essential to see the impact of social and cultural beliefs of individuals on pregnancy of women and their decisions relevant to childbearing. To get an in depth understanding of midwifery from sociological aspect, an interview was conducted with Mrs. H to examine the matter. Since she did not know me well it was important to begin the conversation from my personal experience of childbearing to ensure that trust will be build and she would be more confident to share her views in relevance to midwifery. During the interview she stated that she has been pregnant for the eighth time and was having complications, yet she has to do her household chores. The woman belonged to rural area of a Muslim country Pakistan, she did consult midwife to ask for healthcare services with the complications she had however she was not able to guide her through, since she lacked ...