Defining woman-centred care: A concept analysis

In midwifery a shared definition of woman-centred care is lacking, and this remains an identified gap in the evidence underpinning midwifery practice.

Woman-centred care is an underpinning philosophy used in midwifery practice both nationally and internationally.

To analyse the practice of woman-centred care to clarify its meaning and comprehension and subsequently advance an evidence-based definition of the concept.

Using an adapted theoretical and colloquial evolutionary model a three-stage concept analysis was conducted to identify attributes, antecedents, and consequences of woman-centred care and subsequently construct an evidence-based, internationally informed definition.

Antecedents of woman-centred care are education, models of care and midwife characteristics. Attributes are choice and control, empowerment, and relationships. Consequences are shared and informed decision making which supports the woman in navigating complex health systems, and improved health outcomes. Whilst important to midwifery practice and midwifery-led models of care, continuity of care is not a core essential element of woman-centred care.

Analysis, synthesis, and re-examination of the data on woman-centred care facilitated deep immersion, exploration and clarification of this concept that underpins midwifery philosophy and practice. The constructed definition can be used to inform health policy, midwifery research, education, and clinical practice.

An evidence-based definition of woman-centred care is necessary for conversion of this essential concept to practice. Regardless of model of care all women should receive woman-centre care improving the health outcomes of both the woman and neonate.