Birth centres in the East Midlands: views and experiences of midwives

Abstract

In order to investigate midwives' views and experiences of working at birth centres a qualitative interview study was performed at three birth centres in the UK. Nine midwives were recruited for personal interviews via snowball sampling. Qualitative content analysis was undertaken with the identification of categories and themes. Autonomy of practice emerged as the main category with five subcategories: midwifery aspects, professional development, flexibility and work demand, independence and interprofessional relationships. The main outcome of this study was the autonomy the midwives felt by practising and promoting normal midwifery care. Many midwives also expressed a feeling of increased confidence and professional development by working in a birth centre. Experiences of flexibility and work–life balance were generally positive. Continuity of care was much appreciated. Negative aspects were mainly associated with high work pressure, staff shortages and at times a demanding work environment. The different localizations of the birth centres had both advantages and disadvantages.