The Essence of Midwifery
by Linda V. Walsh, CNM, MPH
He who uttered the words, "Routine Delivery"
Or hastily wrote "Normal Spontaneous Delivery" as one further procedure in a busy day
Could'nt 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 her strengh 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 couldn't 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 knows 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.
DISCLAIMER
The information contained on this website is of a general nature and is designed for educational purposes only. The information is not meant to replace the recommendations or advise of your midwife or doctor.