Ep 81 Cecilia Jevitt on UK, Canadian and American Midwifery changes and the resurgence of midwives

Ep 81 (ibit.ly/Re5V) Cecilia Jevitt on UK, Canadian and American Midwifery changes and the resurgence of midwives

@PhDMidwives  #MidTwitter  #research #midwifery @UBC @world_midwives @MidwivesRCM @VIDofM @Yale @USouthFlorida #canadianmidwifery

Research link - ibit.ly/KzSJD

How does a physical education major become a pioneering midwife? In today's episode, we journey through the extraordinary life of Cecilia Jevitt, a seasoned midwife with over 35 years of experience. Cecilia's path started with a fortuitous encounter with an article about the Frontier Nursing Service which completely altered her career trajectory. She shares her story of determination, from earning an associate's and bachelor's degree in nursing to securing a spot in one of the limited midwifery programs of the 1970s at Emory University. Her plans to practice in the U.S. Virgin Islands and the unwavering support she received along the way underscore her incredible dedication to the field.

Next, we explore Cecilia's transition from clinical practice to academia, highlighting her pursuit of a doctorate in applied medical anthropology. With ethnographic research in the UK and experiences working in a large hospital practice, Cecilia offers a unique perspective on midwifery education and regulation. We also discuss the challenges she faced balancing motherhood and education, the significance of doctorally prepared nurses, particularly in underserved regions, and how her academic journey has fueled her passion for expanding midwifery on a global scale.

Lastly, Cecilia walks us through the evolution of midwifery education and practice. From the shift away from routine episiotomies to modern monitoring techniques, we discuss the critical role midwives play in community health and the importance of higher education. The episode also touches on the urgent need for more midwifery programs, especially in underserved areas, and the complexities of maternal care access in the United States. Join us for an engaging conversation that captures the essence of midwifery's past, present, and future, highlighting the transformative power of this essential healthcare profession.

Chapters

• 0:00 Journey to Becoming a Midwife
• 13:26 PhD in Public Health and Midwifery
• 25:45 Evolution of Midwifery Education and Practice
• 41:06 Changing Midwifery Practices Over Time
• 49:40 Adapting Midwifery to Modern Challenges
• 1:01:24 Sensory Perception Game in Education