(the midwife) account perfectly illustrates how the woman's physical wellbeing is preserved though the attributes of a calm, relaxed and quiet atmosphere. A therapeutic relationship between the woman and midwife is portrayed through the woman's perceptions of empowerment. She is fully in control of her environment and the birth experience through minimal intervention by the midwife (no vaginal examination and a physiological third stage) resulting in an intact perineum and early initiation of breastfeeding.
Lucy's account highlights the value of continuity of carer using her intuitive knowledge. This is beautifully illustrated when despite being told that the rate and strengths of contraction were not indicative of active labour, Lucy actively listened to Fiona and engaged fully with her to understand how events were unfolding. Lucy's quote is illuminative of the wonderful attributes that she displays in truly being ‘with woman’. Lucy says, ‘listen carefully to a mother and she will tell you her story; engage with her and you will understand it’.
Finally, the women's stories demonstrate the value of continuity of carer in their own home environment. The attributes of ‘known’ midwives, whose presence offers reassurance, decreased anxiety and fear, were perceived by the women as ‘kindness, compassion and incredibly professional’. This presence encouraged a self‐belief in the women, affirming that their own bodies can birth naturally. This is wonderfully reaffirmed by Victoria's friend when she messaged, ‘My job is simply to relax and allow my body to birth my baby’. Victoria acknowledged the midwives' intuition in getting ready for the birth and states, ‘they were right’. They remained patient and calm, giving of self through a balance of engagement with Victoria but affording her therapeutic space when needed, ‘and completely left me alone’. These attributes and consequences of being ‘with woman’ are clearly identified through Rodgers' Concept Analysis of the literature, but the stories above, speak for themselves.
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