Freebirth stories - with Professor Emerita Mavis Kirkham

Mavis Kirkham is Midwifery Professor Emerita at Sheffield Hallam
University and has held honorary professorial positions at the
University of Technology Sydney and Auckland University of
Technology. After over forty years as a clinical midwife and
researcher, she is interested in reflecting and writing on birth
and midwifery in its wider context. A major theme of her research
has been the way in which the context of their care impacts upon
childbearing women and how their working experiences impact upon
midwives. She has long been concerned with how birth stories are
negotiated and the impact of these stories on tellers and
hearers. With Nadine Edwards she has edited a new book titled
Freebirth Stories.


 In this episode we discuss with Mavis:


About Mavis’ interest in freebirth and why it seems more
women are choosing this way to give birth 

Mavis tells us about the Freebirth stories from women and
Doulas she and Nadine collected for their new book

We discuss the importance of language in pregnancy, birth and
postpartum spaces 

The important role that doulas play 

And we ask what Mavis sees as the future of midwifery 



 Mavis is one of those midwives who has witnessed so many
parts of midwifery and her bounty of knowledge and kindness
shines through in this episode.

LINKS:
Freebirth Stories 


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Music by Joseph McDade


Disclaimer
The information shared in this podcast is for general educational
purposes only and is not intended as medical or legal advice.
Always consult with a qualified professional regarding individual
health concerns.

The Midwives’ Cauldron podcast does not guarantee the
completeness or accuracy of the information provided and accepts
no liability for any loss or harm arising from reliance on this
content.