For centuries, childbirth was an exclusively female domain. The knowledge of delivering babies and the associated care was handed down from one generation to the other. Midwives were the primary caregivers, handling the intricacies of birth with a combination of instinct, traditional wisdom, and observation. Modern obstetrics brought in a paradigm shift, turning the nature-oriented process into a medical event. But, with the increasing awareness and mindfulness about childbirth, the pendulum is swinging back towards a more balanced approach, and midwives are making a comeback. Here are ten compelling reasons why one should consider including midwives in their maternity journey.

• Continuity of Care: The most significant advantage of having a midwife is the continuity of care. They provide a gamut of services - from prenatal care, support during labor and delivery, to postpartum assistance. The constancy contributes to a sense of familiarity, comfort, and trust, facilitating better communication and personalized care. The potential for improved maternal and neonatal outcomes is significantly high.

• Empowerment and Autonomy: Empirical evidence suggests that midwives foster a sense of control and empowerment. The midwifery model of care operates on the principle of 'woman-centered care', emphasizing informed consent, respect for the woman's autonomy, and shared decision-making.

• Lower Intervention Rates: Research has consistently shown that midwifery care results in lower intervention rates. Midwives tend to utilize fewer medical interventions, thus reducing the associated risks. The "wait-and-watch" approach, coupled with their expertise in normal, physiological birth, often results in lower cesarean section rates, episiotomies, and epidural usage.

• Emphasis on Natural Birth: Midwives are trained in the art and science of normal childbirth. They encourage natural birth, facilitating the physiological processes and working with the woman's body. Women under the care of midwives are less likely to have a medicalized birth unless necessary.

• Comprehensive Education and Support: Midwives are excellent educators. They dedicate time to ensure the pregnant woman and her family understand the myriad changes, options for childbirth, and ways to prepare for labor. The education extends beyond childbirth to breastfeeding and newborn care.

• Emotional Support: Emotional well-being is equally important during the maternity journey. Midwives provide substantial emotional support, addressing fears, and anxieties, and encouraging women, thus contributing to a positive birth experience.

• Cost-Effectiveness: Midwifery care has been shown to be cost-effective compared to the conventional medical model. The reduced intervention rates, lower cesarean section rates, shorter hospital stays all contribute to substantial cost savings, without compromising the quality of care.

• Postpartum Care: The midwifery model of care extends to the postpartum period as well. Midwives provide comprehensive postpartum care, assisting with breastfeeding and ensuring the mother's physical and emotional well-being.

• Building a Community: Midwives often work in groups or practices, creating a sense of community among the women under their care. This camaraderie can provide significant emotional support and a sense of belonging.

• Evidence-based Care: Midwifery care is not an alternate or secondary form of care. It is a model of care founded on evidence-based practices, respect for women, and the physiological process of birth.

In conclusion, the midwifery model of care, with its emphasis on normalcy, individualized care, and evidence-based practice, has immense potential to contribute positively to the maternity journey. It aligns with the principles of physiological childbirth and women-centered care, offering a holistic approach. Considering including midwives in your maternity journey may open the doors to a more personalized, empowering, and satisfying birth experience.