The rebirth of midwifery in Canada: an historical perspective

Abstract

The history of midwifery in Canada, beginning in the 17th century in New France, is characterised by periods of suppression and rebirth. At present, the long standing dominance of the medical establishment is giving way to the demand of women to assume greater control over the birthing process. Several provinces in Canada are in the process of obtaining midwifery legislation designed to strengthen, support and legalise the practice of midwifery. Lack of supportive legislation has discouraged the practice of midwifery. Though midwifery care has not been readily accessible, women have persisted in their search for care by a midwife. In response, female friends with a variety of educational preparation have found ways to prepare themselves and respond to women's need for an expert in normal birth. From an historical analysis of midwifery in Canada it would appear that a primary factor influencing midwifery's rebirth has been the power and determination of women to demedicalise normal birth and return it to the domain of women.