Abstract

BACKGROUND
Theoretical models for health care practice are important both as tools for guiding daily practice and for explaining the philosophical basis for care.
AIM
The aim of this study was to define and develop an evidence-based midwifery model of woman-centred care in Sweden and Iceland.
METHOD
Using a hermeneutic approach we developed a model based on a synthesis of findings from 12 of our own published qualitative studies about women's and/or midwives' experiences of childbirth. For validity testing, the model was assessed in six focus group interviews with 30 practising midwives in Iceland and Sweden.
FINDINGS
The model includes five main themes. Three central intertwined themes are: a reciprocal relationship; a birthing atmosphere; and grounded knowledge. The remaining two themes, which likewise influence care, are the cultural context (with hindering and promoting norms); and the balancing act involved in facilitating woman-centred care.
CONCLUSION
The model shows that midwifery care in this era of modern medical technology entails a balancing act for enhancing the culture of care based on midwifery philosophies. The next step will be to implement the model in midwifery programmes and in clinical practice, and to evaluate its applicability.

Links

Publisher Full Text

Authors

Berg M, Asta Ólafsdóttir O, Lundgren I

Institution

Institute of Health and Care Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Sweden. marie.berg@gu.se

Source

Sexual & reproductive healthcare : official journal of the Swedish Association of Midwives 3:2 2012 Jun pg 79-87

MeSH

Clinical Competence
Culture
Female
Focus Groups
Humans
Iceland
Midwifery
Models, Nursing
Nurse-Patient Relations
Parturition
Patient Participation
Patient-Centered Care
Pregnancy
Prenatal Care
Sweden
Women's Health

Pub Type(s)

Journal Article

Language

eng

PubMed ID

22578755