midwifery

midwifery, care of women in pregnancy, childbirth (parturition), and the postpartum period that often also includes care of the newborn. Midwifery is as old as childbearing. Indeed, midwives historically were women who were mothers themselves and who became midwives when they attended the births of neighbours or family members. Though without formal training, some midwives had extensive knowledge of herbal remedies and performed medical services beyond attending childbirths. Midwifery was an important occupation for married,...