April 2, 2024
Updated May 19, 2025
20 minute read
A Comprehensive Guide to a Career as a Midwife
Midwifery is a health science and health profession centered on pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period, including the care of the newborn. It's a path that calls for a unique blend of skill, knowledge, and compassion, offering a deeply rewarding experience for those drawn to supporting individuals and families through one of life's most significant events. Midwives view pregnancy and birth as normal life processes and often support a more holistic approach to care.
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Reading list
We've selected some books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Midwife.
Provides a critical introduction to the concept of reproductive justice, an intersectional framework that considers how race, class, gender, and other social identities shape reproductive autonomy and access to healthcare. It is essential for understanding the social and political dimensions of reproductive health beyond a purely medical model and is highly relevant to contemporary discussions and activism.
A powerful and essential book that examines the history of reproductive oppression and control of Black women in the United States, from slavery to the present day. It provides crucial historical context for understanding contemporary reproductive health disparities and the importance of reproductive justice. must-read for anyone seeking a deep understanding of the intersection of race and reproductive rights.
Foundational text in women's health, providing a comprehensive and accessible overview of topics including anatomy, sexuality, contraception, pregnancy, childbirth, and menopause. It is particularly useful for gaining a broad understanding of reproductive health from a feminist perspective and is often used as a key resource for individuals seeking to understand their own bodies and health choices.
This comprehensive guide provides a wealth of information on all aspects of breastfeeding, from the basics of latching and positioning to troubleshooting common challenges. It is an excellent resource for both new and experienced mothers.
This comprehensive guide provides expectant mothers with up-to-date information on all aspects of childbirth, from prenatal care to labor and delivery. It is written by two experienced obstetricians who have delivered thousands of babies.
Considered a classic and authoritative medical textbook in neonatology, this book provides comprehensive and in-depth coverage of the diseases and conditions affecting newborns. It is an essential reference tool and commonly used textbook for graduate students, residents, fellows, and practicing neonatologists and pediatricians. is crucial for those seeking a deep, medical understanding of newborn health challenges.
This widely used manual practical and comprehensive guide to the medical management of conditions in the newborn, particularly in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). It serves as a key reference and learning tool for medical students, residents, neonatal nurse practitioners, and neonatologists. Its concise format and focus on clinical practice make it invaluable for solidifying understanding in a professional setting.
Drawing on clinical experience, this book explores the disparities in maternal health outcomes for Black women in America and advocates for solutions to achieve reproductive justice in maternal care. It's a recent publication highly relevant to current public health concerns.
Another major comprehensive textbook in neonatology, this resource delves into the pathophysiology and management of newborn conditions. It critical text for graduate-level students and medical professionals specializing in newborn care, offering detailed explanations to deepen understanding of complex medical issues. core reference for academic study and clinical practice in neonatal medicine.
Explores how racism shapes the experiences of Black women during pregnancy and childbirth, contributing to disparities in maternal and infant health. It is highly relevant to understanding contemporary issues in reproductive health and the impact of social determinants of health.
Uncovers the تاريخ (history) of American gynecology, revealing how medical advancements were made through the exploitation of enslaved Black women. It provides essential historical context for understanding present-day medical racism and disparities in reproductive healthcare.
This specialized text focuses on the unique challenges and management of high-risk newborns, such as premature or critically ill infants. It is an essential resource for graduate students and professionals working in NICUs or with vulnerable infant populations, providing in-depth knowledge to deepen understanding of complex care needs. is valuable for those seeking to specialize in or gain advanced knowledge of intensive newborn care.
Examines the criminalization of pregnancy and motherhood, particularly for marginalized women. It sheds light on the legal and social control of women's reproductive lives and is relevant to contemporary issues of reproductive justice.
Provides evidence-based information on menopause and its impact on women's health, challenging common misconceptions and promoting self-advocacy.
This comprehensive reference book covers all aspects of menopause, including medical treatments, lifestyle changes, and emotional support.
A historical analysis of the Roe v. Wade decision and its impact on American politics and society. is valuable for understanding the legal and political history of reproductive rights in the United States.
Investigates how gender bias in medicine negatively impacts women's healthcare, including reproductive health. It is important for understanding systemic issues within the medical field that affect reproductive health outcomes.
Continuing the PCEP series, this volume delves into more specialized aspects of newborn care, suitable for professionals seeking to deepen their expertise. It covers advanced topics and complex conditions encountered in neonatal intensive care. is an important reference and learning resource for experienced neonatal nurses, nurse practitioners, and other specialists, providing in-depth knowledge for managing high-acuity patients.
Offers a comprehensive introduction to reproductive and sexual health from a human rights perspective, integrating medical, ethical, and legal considerations. It is particularly useful for understanding the global context of reproductive health and the ethical and legal challenges involved.
Examines the ethical, legal, and political aspects of abortion, focusing on the everyday realities of abortion access and care. It provides a nuanced and accessible discussion of a complex and often contentious topic.
This highly popular book focuses on a specific, yet critical, aspect of newborn care: soothing crying and promoting sleep using the '5 S's' technique. It provides practical, actionable advice that can immediately solidify a parent's ability to comfort their newborn. While narrow in scope compared to comprehensive guides, its depth in this key area makes it a must-read for new parents and a useful reference for anyone working with infants.
Part of a structured learning program for healthcare professionals, this book focuses on neonatal care, covering assessment, initial management of common illnesses, and specific topics like neonatal abstinence syndrome. It's designed to solidify practical skills and knowledge for those providing direct care to newborns, serving as a valuable reference and educational tool for students and professionals in nursing, respiratory therapy, and other allied health fields.
This practical guide provides answers to common questions and concerns about breastfeeding. It is an excellent resource for mothers who are looking for evidence-based information and support.
Widely popular and comprehensive guide covering the first year of a baby's life, with significant focus on the newborn period. It provides practical advice on care, feeding, sleep, and developmental milestones, making it highly relevant for gaining a broad understanding. While not a textbook, it's an excellent resource for new parents and can provide foundational knowledge for high school and undergraduate students exploring the topic.
Tells the story of the individuals behind the landmark Roe v. Wade Supreme Court decision, offering a personal perspective on the history of abortion rights in the United States. It provides a humanizing look at a pivotal legal case and its impact.
This textbook provides an overview of maternal and child health from a public health perspective, covering programs, problems, and policy. It foundational text for understanding the public health aspects of reproductive health and is likely used in academic settings.
Tells the story of the development of the birth control pill, a pivotal moment in the history of reproductive health and women's liberation. It provides valuable historical context for understanding modern contraception.
This user-friendly guide provides clear and concise instructions on how to breastfeed successfully. It is an excellent resource for first-time mothers who are looking for a step-by-step approach to breastfeeding.
This philosophical exploration examines the challenges and opportunities of midlife, including menopause, and provides guidance on navigating this transitional stage.
While a work of fiction, this dystopian novel explores themes of reproductive control and the subjugation of women, offering a powerful (and often cited) cautionary tale about the potential consequences of losing reproductive rights. It serves as a compelling piece for discussion and critical thinking on the importance of reproductive freedom.
This inspiring guide offers a positive perspective on menopause, focusing on self-care, empowerment, and finding joy in this new stage of life.
This classic work explores the psychological and social experiences of menopause, shedding light on its cultural and historical significance.
This nursing textbook includes a section on menopause and provides guidance on assessing, diagnosing, and treating menopausal symptoms.
Authored by an economist, this book takes a data-driven approach to common parenting questions, including many relevant to newborn care like breastfeeding, sleep training, and vaccinations. It challenges conventional wisdom by examining the evidence, offering a contemporary perspective valuable for parents and students interested in understanding the data behind recommendations. It's an excellent resource for critical thinking about newborn care practices.
This guide is specifically tailored for midwives and other healthcare professionals involved in the care of both mothers and newborns. It integrates maternal and neonatal health, providing a holistic perspective on care during the perinatal period. It serves as a valuable resource for students and practitioners in midwifery, nursing, and public health, offering a comprehensive overview of care practices from birth through the early postnatal period.
Addresses the stigma surrounding menstruation and advocates for menstrual justice. It highlights a contemporary issue within reproductive health and the importance of advocacy.
Written by an OB/GYN, this book debunks myths and provides evidence-based information about vaginal health. It's a practical and accessible resource for understanding basic reproductive anatomy and health.
A comprehensive guide from well-known parenting experts, this book covers a wide range of topics related to infant care and development, with a significant portion dedicated to the newborn stage. It is popular among parents interested in attachment parenting principles and provides detailed information that can deepen understanding of infant cues and needs. While not a formal textbook, it's a valuable resource for parents and can offer a different perspective for students.
Another guide by an OB/GYN, this book aims to empower women with knowledge about their intimate health, addressing topics that are often considered taboo. It serves as a useful resource for general understanding and sparking conversations about reproductive health.
Focuses on the role of hormones in menopause and provides dietary and lifestyle recommendations to optimize hormonal balance and alleviate symptoms.
This holistic guide explores the spiritual and emotional dimensions of menopause, offering insights into personal growth and transformation.
Provides a comprehensive overview of pregnancy, childbirth, and the newborn period. It is written by three experienced childbirth educators who have helped thousands of families prepare for the birth of their children.
Published by the AAP, this book is specifically written for parents of infants in the NICU. It explains complex medical conditions and procedures in accessible language, empowering parents to understand their baby's care. While aimed at a parent audience, it provides valuable insight into the NICU environment and the challenges faced by vulnerable newborns, offering relevant context for students and professionals interacting with these families.
Focuses on the science of egg quality and its impact on fertility and pregnancy outcomes. It valuable resource for individuals seeking to understand the biological factors affecting conception and can complement studies on infertility.
While not solely focused on newborns, this book provides a scientific foundation in behavioral epigenetics, explaining how early environmental factors, including caregiving, can influence gene expression and long-term development. It offers a deeper, contemporary understanding of the biological significance of early newborn experiences, making it highly relevant for graduate students and professionals in pediatrics, psychology, and neuroscience.
This popular book focuses on the mental developmental leaps that infants go through, including several in the newborn period. It helps parents understand and anticipate changes in their baby's behavior, providing practical strategies for navigating fussy periods. It offers valuable insights into infant development that can deepen understanding for parents and be supplementary reading for students of child development.
This empowering book provides strategies and support for mothers who are facing challenges with breastfeeding. It is an excellent resource for mothers who are looking to overcome obstacles and achieve their breastfeeding goals.
A foundational book on infant and child sleep, this resource provides methods and guidance for establishing healthy sleep habits. While covering a broader age range, it includes significant information relevant to newborn sleep patterns and challenges. It's a classic in its field and a valuable reference for parents and professionals seeking to understand and address infant sleep issues, a common concern in newborn care.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of obstetrics, including normal and problem pregnancies. It is written by a leading obstetrician who has over 40 years of experience in the field.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/career/36lqit/midwif
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