Midwife: With Woman
When I started Motheroots in 1995 I had no idea about the extraordinary path it would lead me on as a mother and a social worker. I have been reflecting on the impact of bearing witness to losses, infertility, traumas, joys, transformations, and deep connections.
In Portland, we are incredibly lucky to have such an amazing amount of perinatal support. This includes yoga teachers, chiropractors, acupuncturists, doctors, perinatologists, doulas, lactation support, loss groups, postpartum groups, and midwives. The number of these services has grown exponentially over the years. Unfortunately, many of these services are not available to all people. There is increasing attention about this disparity for low income, LGBTQ, and people of color. We have a long way to go so that all people can access services.
I currently see many midwives in my clinical practice. I am struck by how they are holding life in the midst of this pandemic. I searched the etymology of the word midwife and found it meant,” with woman”. The word “with” is perfect for what they do. In even the most traumatic and difficult births, women feel cared for when they feel their support people are with them. It is apparent that when women feel deeply listened to it impacts their birth experience.
During this pandemic working with these extraordinary midwives has been a privilege. Midwives have experienced daily changes that impact the way they work with women. They have been furloughed, separated from their teams, are apart from their families, and are called on to endure extended hours often with a decrease in pay. Midwives are abruptly sent to new clinics where they must learn new protocols and procedures.
Midwives are now able to wear PPE, and though this is critical and necessary, this protection is making it much more challenging to be with women during their labor. Touch is a primary form of connection for midwives and this physical distance is yet another loss. Midwives are adjusting and seeing how they can now touch hearts with just their eyes. The midwives I see are so filled with love, sorrow, anger, joy, life, and death. Listening to these women is awe-inspiring. Like a beautiful poem or a tender song, I am changed by hearing their stories in ways I cannot explain. These women show incredible dedication and heart wisdom.
These frontline heroes are holding the sadness and joys of our world in their eyes, I can see and feel it even through the electronic devices I am using in my work. Midwives are finding new ways to be with woman, bringing new life into our communities.