As a midwife ‘you must respect a woman's right to confidentiality’: A Northern Ireland perspective

Abstract

Within the role of a registered midwife, the issue of maintaining confidentiality is complex. A midwife's responsibility is outlined and governed by laws such as the Human Rights Act 1998 and the Data Protection Act 1998. The ideology of confidentiality is further reinforced by the Nursing and Midwifery Council, and should not cause the midwife undue pressure or stress; however, it often becomes a cause for concern. Midwives in Northern Ireland may carry out their role in environments that are not well suited for preserving confidentiality or sharing sensitive information. Conflict may arise for midwives in maintaining women's confidentiality while also having a duty of care to protect the public. In today's climate, many midwives experience a fear of litigation, so the importance and complexity of confidentiality must not be underestimated.