Storytelling, Midwifery Knowledge and Physiological Birth

Abstract

Midwifery has a long oral tradition, where knowledge has been generated via the sharing of stories and experience from practice, rather than via scientific research. Any midwife working in a team in the community, on a labour ward or in a birth centre will be familiar with the rich discussion and reflection on practice that is at the heart of what we do. In recent years, the move towards a more scientific and ‘evidence-based’ approach has undermined the value of this tradition as a form of knowledge. This article explores the nature of midwifery knowledge, proposing that storytelling is a valid method of sharing, reflecting on and developing midwifery knowledge and practice in relation to supporting physiological labour and birth.