The midwifery solution to contemporary problems in American obstetrics

This article focuses on midwifery as one solution to many of the problems t hat confront contemporary American obstetrics. Documented evidence with his toric perspective that supports the view that midwifery should become the m ainstream in maternity care in the United States, not an alternative, is pr esented. The role differences and conflicts that tend to arise between doct ors and midwives are discussed and collaboration between the two profession al groups is suggested as yet another solution to the problem. (C) 1999 by the American College of Nurse-Midwives.