Abstract
The thesis represents an empirical study of safety and quality of maternity care in freestanding midwifery units in Denmark. It is publication-based and consists of a thesis overview and three peer-reviewed publications. A multidisciplinary and mixed-methods approach is applied and the work is informed by sociological theories of childbirth, medicine, midwifery and health.
At the same time as it is both a biological and a cultural phenomenon, childbirth is a significant personal life event shaped by the historical, social and political context in which it takes place. In most high- and middle-income countries, obstetric units (OU) have become the primary setting for birth, also for low risk women. This model of care is dominated by a medical and technological perspective that has led some to question the ability of OUs to meet the needs of all birthing women. While OUs have given increased attention to women’s autonomy and the “humanisation” of care, midwifery units have emerged as an alternative to OU care for low-risk women, offering low-technological, individualised, and patient-centred care.
At the same time as it is both a biological and a cultural phenomenon, childbirth is a significant personal life event shaped by the historical, social and political context in which it takes place. In most high- and middle-income countries, obstetric units (OU) have become the primary setting for birth, also for low risk women. This model of care is dominated by a medical and technological perspective that has led some to question the ability of OUs to meet the needs of all birthing women. While OUs have given increased attention to women’s autonomy and the “humanisation” of care, midwifery units have emerged as an alternative to OU care for low-risk women, offering low-technological, individualised, and patient-centred care.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Journal | Medical Sociology Online |
| Volume | 6 |
| Issue number | 3 |
| Publication status | Published - 2012 |