Midwifery Care: An Evolutionary Concept Analysis

To build an evidence-based definition of midwifery care and its fundamental and distinctive features.

Rodgers and Knafl's evolutionary concept analysis.

Six databases (PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, PsycINFO, Scopus, ProQuest) were searched and a thematic sampling of the sources was performed.

The search yielded 30 relevant papers.

Key findings include five antecedent categories: philosophy, personal features, regulatory features, care context and professional team. Attributes include relationship and family-centredness. Consequences encompass safety, empowerment and professional outcomes. Related concepts and surrogate terms reflect the broader scope and the fragmented perception of 'midwifery care'.

Midwifery care is often limited by obstetric-led models that prioritise risk management over holistic care. This disparity leads to discrimination and professional dissatisfaction, impacting on the quality of care and midwives' well-being.

Through the conceptualisation of midwifery care, research, education, clinical practice and governance can be oriented toward professional priorities, enhancing coherence, awareness and relevance in relation to the ontological nature of the profession and its systemic value within healthcare and society. In this context, it is crucial for policymakers to maximise the development and implementation of policies that support the establishment of care models based on the principles of midwifery care, ensuring a more comprehensive and effective healthcare system.

No patient or public contribution.