The marginalisation of midwifery in medicalised pregnancy and childbirth: a qualitative study.

Introduction: The role of midwives has changed in providing care for low-risk pregnancies and childbirth. This study explores the perceptions of perinatal care providers and recipients regarding midwifery services. Methods: This study used a qualitative content analysis approach. Data were collected through 49 semi-structured in-depth interviews, and analysed with qualitative content analysis. Results: The medicalisation of pregnancy and childbirth has marginalised midwifery. Midwifery, which should be at the heart of all low-risk pregnancies and childbirth, has deteriorated such that it has become disempowered in interdisciplinary relations. Conclusions: Midwifery is at risk of being totally excluded from low-risk pregnancy care and childbirth. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]