Midwifing: meaning, definitions and examples
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midwifing
[ mɪdˈwaɪfɪŋ ]
childbirth assistance
Midwifing refers to the practice of providing care and assistance to women during pregnancy, labor, and the postpartum period. Midwives are trained professionals who specialize in normal pregnancies and deliveries. They support mothers by monitoring the health of both mother and baby, offering education, and providing emotional support. This practice emphasizes a natural approach to childbirth, often within a home or community setting rather than a hospital. Midwifing can also encompass the provision of prenatal and postnatal care.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- She has been midwifing for over ten years.
- The midwifing process involves various assessments.
- Many women prefer midwifing for a more personal experience.
- Certified midwives specialize in midwifing during home births.
Translations
Translations of the word "midwifing" in other languages:
🇵🇹 parteira
🇮🇳 मध्यस्थता
🇩🇪 Hebamme
🇮🇩 dukun bayi
🇺🇦 акушерство
🇵🇱 położnictwo
🇯🇵 助産
🇫🇷 sage-femme
🇪🇸 partería
🇹🇷 ebe
🇰🇷 조산
🇸🇦 قابلة
🇨🇿 porodní asistentka
🇸🇰 pôrodná asistentka
🇨🇳 助产
🇸🇮 porodna dula
🇮🇸 fæðingarhjálp
🇰🇿 акушер
🇬🇪 დედობის დახმარება
🇦🇿 doğum köməkçisi
🇲🇽 partería
Etymology
The term 'midwifing' derives from the Old English word 'midwif', which combines 'mid' meaning 'with' and 'wif' meaning 'woman'. Historically, midwives have played a crucial role in assisting with childbirth, especially before the advent of modern medicine. The practice has ancient roots, traceable back to various cultures that recognized the need for trained professionals to help women through labor. Midwives traditionally possessed knowledge of herbal remedies and were integral in community settings, acting as both caregivers and support figures during childbirth. The professionalization of midwifing began in the Middle Ages, with midwives gaining recognition and formal training in many regions. This evolution continues today, with midwifery being widely accepted as an essential part of maternal healthcare in many parts of the world.