10.8 Spiritual meanings in childbirth: the role of the midwife

Historically, in all cultures, midwives have had a close connection with spirituality, and with religion. So as we look at contemporary care, do we need to reflect and be aware of our historical links? An awareness of different cultures, and of differences between beliefs, and practices is fundamental to the way the midwife can personalise care to match with the women and families personal needs. This week, we will explore some of the different beliefs and thoughts around fertility, pregnancy and birth and loss, and how these impact on the needs of women, families, and their babies, as well midwives in their planning and delivery of culturally sensitive and individualised care. Hosted by: Sue Macdonald, Midwifery Expert, Mayes Midwifery Contribution from: Dr Jenny Hall, Midwifery Lecturer; Editor, Maternity and Midwifery Forum and MATFLIX Fatimah Mohamied, Midwife and Cultural Safety Champion, London Biographies Dr Jenny Hall has been creatively educating for nursing and midwifery all her career, in practice, publication or higher education. Recently this has been through developing reflective practice in other educators on the Postgraduate certificate for education. She is currently a mentor and assessor for a Higher Education Academy (HEA) programme and Masters level supervisor and assessor. Her passion is to view women’s needs holistically, including recognising spirituality. Previously editor for The Practising Midwife, she has published widely. Recent research topics include spirituality, promoting dignity and respect in education and the human rights experiences of disabled women. Further interest lies in educating for Sustainable Development. She is Fellow of the Royal College of Midwives and Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. She is Editor of the MATFLIX box sets. Fatimah Mohamied is a Midwife, Mother and Muslim. She is an alloy of British, Egyptian and Bengali constituents, whose passions lie in advocating for marginalized and vulnerable groups. Her work also strives to dismantle patriarchy, white supremacy and racism with a focus on protecting the dignity and respect of those harmed or in harm's way. Fatimah has written for grass roots organizations such as The Khidr Collective, and Migrant Matters. She has also contributed to efforts in reducing inequalities for healthcare staff via the Nursing Narratives documentary "exposed". Fatimah runs the Cultural Safety Book Club which will commence its third season in September and is excited to begin her new role as Cultural Safety Lead in July, while starting a new podcast alongside the author Shelley Silas. Register your free place today to get a personalised reminder from us.Join us at 7 pm on Wednesday at this hour-long online programme with live audience Q&A to update your knowledge.Live on Maternity and Midwifery Forum | 7pm London, UK | Wednesday's throughout 2022.