Question

Discuss six (6) reasons for the introduction of the training of male midwives and how beneficial this has been to the practice of midwifery. Each reason discussed should be supported by literature cited in the text and listed in the reference list.

The field of midwifery practice has historically been female dominated. However, there has been a gradual introduction of males into the practice globally. In Ghana, the Nursing and Midwifery Council allows the training of male midwives, even though it appears men are not so interested in the practice.

Discuss six (6) reasons for the introduction of the training of male midwives and how beneficial this has been to the practice of midwifery. Each reason discussed should be supported by literature cited in the text and listed in the reference list.

Answer 1

Although, the nursing profession in general has done much to conquer gender sterotypes,according to the NHS,male genral practice nurses still make up just 11.4%of the workforce.

though this is an improvement on menin midwifery.which makes up a mere 0.4%of the workforce,its by no means a triumph

there are concerns in some quaters that serotype gender bias and societal attitudes are stopping men from training as miswives.this attitude could be a reason behind the disparity between male and females students entering miswifery and nursing cources

it's true that up until 1975,midwifery was seen as a female profession in the eyes of the law,the men were prevented from training.but times have changed attitude must follow.

interestingly it was midwifes themselves who opposed the idea of male midwives and the royal collage of midwives fought back against prposed legislative changes in 1951.that would allow male midwives on three grounds.

1.midwives give intimate care and most of the public and the birthing women would not accept this care from a male midwife

2.the depth of intimate care required for pschological support during a womens pregnancy is best given by another female.

3.and the very fact that a midwife is a women is vittal in her function.