Choice and inclusion in childbirth and the power of midwife researchers

We recently welcomed over 70 delegates to the first EoE MRN online conference. The theme of the conference was choice and inclusion in childbirth, and we were delighted to host a fantastic lineup of midwife researcher speakers, all bringing fascinating insights into different aspects of maternity and midwifery care provision and research.

One of the many things midwives do brilliantly in their research is position the experiences and voices of women, birthing people and midwives front and centre, and the work discussed was no exception. Perspectives on how pregnant women make choices and how midwives practice in an increasingly complex birthing environment stimulated lively discussion. Consideration of the pregnancy experiences of those most marginalised in our society brought insights into the ways services need to do better to safeguard human rights. We discussed how midwives are central to enabling choice, based on the relationships they build; that choice is how dignity is expressed, and inclusion how dignity is protected, including through diverse representation in research.

Delegates further reflected how, without true personalised care, choice is limited and brings exclusion; choice without inclusion risks becoming a privilege rather than a right. Choice depends on being heard, and inclusion depends on being actively welcomed into the conversation and we know, that marginalised groups often are not. The vision for systems where women and birthing people feel listened to, respected, and actively involved in decisions about their care is key, but its delivery is increasingly under strain.

Feedback from those who attended highlighted how much the space to reflect on these topics was valued, with many commenting they only wished there had been more time! Hearing from active midwife researchers was uplifting, due the subjects discussed as well as understanding how midwives build research into their careers. The delegates valued:

“The sheer inspiration gained from these amazing professionals. Discussing research in university theory is nothing compared to hearing about research straight from the source and it really makes me want to get out and do my own research”

“How a group of individuals with a shared passion come together and learn from each other”

“It was wonderful to hear how research is looking at current issues and provides hope for the profession”

Watch this space for our ongoing seminar series, Silence and Scribble writing cafes and more. To be added to the MRN mailing list email k.folliard@uea.ac.uk

Kelda Folliard