In the United Kingdom, a majority of babies are delivered by midwives, whereas in the United
States, midwives attend less than ten percent of births. As the standard of maternity care in the
U.K., midwives practice in all birth settings, ranging from hospitals to homebirths. This thesis
explores how practicing in a variety of settings within the context of a nationalized healthcare
system affects midwives’ professional practice and interpersonal relationships. Thematic analysis
from twenty-nine interviews provides insight into midwives’ nuanced perspectives on
relationships to institutions, the effects of dissimilar practice settings, and relationships to other
healthcare providers. Through analysis of midwives’ professional experiences, this thesis will
reveal the heterogeneity in the field of midwifery, despite the typically homogenizing effects of
professionalization. Upon examination, this diversity among midwives may strengthen the
profession amidst ongoing challenges.Bachelor of Art
