The Essence of Midwifery
By linda V. Walsh, CNM, MPH


He who uttered the words, "Routine Delivery"
or hastily wrote "Normal Spontaneous Delivery" as on further procedure in a busy day 
Couldn't have really been with her

He couldn't have been 
or he would have felt her muscles as they

worked
strained
pushed

that infant into the world.

He couldn't have been 
or he would have truly felt her perspiration weep from her body as she reached for the 
strength deep within

No, he couldn't have really been with her

If he were, he would have appreciated her expression as it changed from excitement, to 
concentration, to fear, and to excitement and peace.

He could have held her, 
whispering

"You're almost there"
"You're doing so beautifully"
"You are so strong"

Routine delivery.

He couldn't have been there 
He couldn't have taken the time to pause in awe and wonder as that little head came slowly, 
ever so slowly, and the eyes opened and looked out with such trust and wisdom.

Procedure-Normal spontaneous delivery.

He couldn't have marveled as she reached down, drawing her daughter to her breast 
Laughing, shouting, crying - all the emotions of birth.

No, he couldn't have been with her

For she who has been with woman know there is no routine birth, and that delivery is not a 
procedure.

Being with woman is opening up,

Sharing,
Loving,
Caring.

Being with woman is truly being a midwife.

" The Essence of Midwifery" was published      
in Pregnancy and the American Bellyache, by
Nancy Wainer Chohen.