Midwives' experiences of facilitating normal birth in midwifery-led units in Norway: A qualitative study

INTRODUCTION Normal birth has significant benefits for mothers and infants. However, the advancement of technology has led to increased medicalization of childbirth. Midwives play a pivotal role in promoting normal birth, and positive outcomes are seen in births led by a midwife. The purpose of the study is to gain a deeper understanding of midwives' experiences of facilitating normal birth in midwifery-led units. METHODS The study has a qualitative design. It was conducted in 2022 and included semi- structured interviews with seven midwives throughout Norway. They were all currently working, or had previously worked, in a midwifery-led unit. The data material was analyzed using systematic text condensation. RESULTS The data analysis resulted in three result categories. The first category concerned the importance of relationships, continuity and a safe atmosphere. The second concerned being a midwife in the hand, in the heart, and in the mind. The third related to having confidence in the physiological process of childbirth, midwifery autonomy, and a common ideology. CONCLUSIONS The study highlights several elements that may help to promote normal birth in midwifery units. Relationships, midwifery skills, confidence in normal birth and a supportive collegial environment that fosters midwife autonomy, are prominent factors. These elements were viewed by the midwives as key to their ability to promote normal birth in a midwifery-led unit.