The role, practice and training of unregulated birth workers in Australia: a mixed methods study
Article
Article Title | The role, practice and training of unregulated birth workers in Australia: a mixed methods study |
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ERA Journal ID | 30465 |
Article Category | Article |
Authors | Rigg, Elizabeth C. (Author), Schmied, Virginia (Author), Peters, Kath (Author) and Dahlen, H. G. (Author) |
Journal Title | Women and Birth |
Journal Citation | 32 (1), pp. E77-E87 |
Number of Pages | 11 |
Year | 2019 |
Publisher | Elsevier |
Place of Publication | Australia |
ISSN | 1871-5192 |
1878-1799 | |
Digital Object Identifier (DOI) | https://doi.org/10.1016/j.wombi.2018.04.007 |
Web Address (URL) | https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1871519217302615 |
Abstract | Background: In Australia, the provision of homebirth services by unregulated birthworkers (doulas, ex- registered midwives, traditional midwives and lay workers) has increased. Accessing a homebirth with a registered midwife via mainstream services is limited. Concern is growing that new legislation aimed at prohibiting unregulated birthworkers practice may result in homebirth going underground. Aim: To explore the role, practice and training of unregulated birthworkers in Australian and establish what they would do if legislation prohibited their practice. Methods: This study used a mixed methods sequential exploratory design to explore the practice, training and role of unregulated birthworkers in Australia. In phase one, four unregulated birthworkers were interviewed in-depth and the findings informed the development of a survey in phase two. This was distributed nationally through two consumer websites, social media, Facebook and email. Data from both phases were integrated. Findings: Unregulated birthworkers in Australia provide homebirth services to women with high and low-risk pregnancies when this choice is unavailable or unacceptable within mainstream services. They operate covertly to protect their practice and avoid the scrutiny of authorities. Unregulated birthworkers can be experienced and trained in childbirth care and practice, much like a midwife working within a holistic paradigm of care. Conclusion: Unregulated birthworkers believe they provide women with the homebirth service they want but cannot access. Mainstream service providers need to listen to consumer criticisms, as women seek answers outside the system. Change is needed to improve and align services with women’s expectations of homebirth. |
Keywords | unregulated birthworker (UBW); homebirth; midwife; doula;lay midwife |
ANZSRC Field of Research 2020 | 420503. Community and primary care |
420499. Midwifery not elsewhere classified | |
Public Notes | Files associated with this item cannot be displayed due to copyright restrictions. |
Byline Affiliations | University of Western Sydney |
Institution of Origin | University of Southern Queensland |
https://research.usq.edu.au/item/q4v04/the-role-practice-and-training-of-unregulated-birth-workers-in-australia-a-mixed-methods-study
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