Transformative learning in homebirth settings: A reflexive thematic analysis of midwifery students' experiences

The homebirth setting provides opportunities for midwifery students to witness autonomous midwifery practice, but these experiences are limited. Factors that limit practicum placement in the home birth setting are either logistical, with less than one percent of women having a homebirth in Australia or related to university governance, whereby approval is not granted for midwifery students attending homebirth.

To explore midwifery students' experiences in the homebirth setting and to determine how this has influenced understandings of the role and scope of practice the midwife.

Qualitative methods were chosen to inform this study.

A University that offers undergraduate and post graduate pre-registration midwifery programs.

Six final year students, from both courses, were interviewed for in-depth interviews.

Interviews were conducted by the first two authors. Data were analysed using Reflexive Thematic analysis.

The study identified four central themes illustrating the transformative experiences of midwifery students attending homebirths: Anchoring trust in the birth process; Encountering the full scope and role; Shifting perspectives on birth space; and A profound beacon of hope. Collectively, these themes elucidate the importance of homebirth experiences as shaping the students' understanding of midwifery practice and profession.

Exposure to homebirth experiences resulted in students achieving a deeper understanding of normal physiology, gained greater insights into the role and scope of midwives, better comprehended the women's birthing experiences, and reinforced midwifery philosophy. Such experiences are crucial for retaining students within the profession.