Focus and Scope

The Journal of Midwifery History and Philosophy is dedicated to exploring the intellectual, historical, and philosophical foundations of midwifery. This journal provides a platform for critical discourse on the evolution of midwifery as a profession, its cultural significance, and its impact on maternal and neonatal care across different societies and historical periods. The scope of the journal includes, but is not limited to, the following themes:

Historical Perspectives

  • The evolution of midwifery practices from ancient to modern times
  • The role of traditional birth attendants in different cultures
  • Midwifery and its relationship with medical institutions throughout history
  • The impact of industrialization and medicalization on midwifery
  • Biographical studies of influential figures in midwifery

Philosophical and Ethical Inquiry

  • Philosophical debates on the nature of midwifery as a discipline
  • Ethical dilemmas in midwifery practice, including autonomy and informed consent
  • The integration of holistic and humanistic approaches in maternal care
  • The philosophy of pain and suffering in childbirth
  • Feminist perspectives on midwifery and reproductive rights

Cultural and Sociological Dimensions

  • Midwifery and its intersection with religion, spirituality, and cultural traditions
  • The representation of midwifery in literature, media, and folklore
  • Gender dynamics and power structures in midwifery practice
  • Cross-cultural comparisons of midwifery care models
  • The role of midwifery in indigenous and marginalized communities

Policy, Advocacy, and Education

  • The influence of legal and political frameworks on midwifery
  • Advocacy for midwifery-led care in public health systems
  • The impact of global health initiatives on midwifery education and training
  • Innovations in midwifery pedagogy and knowledge transmission
  • Ethical challenges in midwifery research and policy-making

This journal welcomes original research articles, critical reviews, historical analyses, philosophical essays, and theoretical discussions that advance the understanding of midwifery from a historical, philosophical, and sociocultural perspective. Our mission is to foster interdisciplinary dialogue that contributes to the enrichment of midwifery knowledge and practice worldwide.