A recent outcry highlights the pressing need for radical change in maternity services to better support mothers and babies. The current system often treats childbirth as an illness, contrary to the World Health Organization’s stance that birth is a natural process, not a medical condition.

Efforts to reform maternity care have been ongoing for years, with advocates pushing for women to be at the center of care, midwives to play a more significant role, and continuity of care to be prioritized. However, despite some progress, many initiatives have struggled due to a lack of financial support and entrenched obstetric-led systems.

One notable success story is the Albany Midwifery Practice in Peckham, London, which demonstrated exceptional outcomes in its approach to care. The practice, operating in partnership with King’s College Hospital, saw high rates of breastfeeding, a significant number of home births, and overall positive birth outcomes. Despite its success, the practice faced closure in 2009, sparking outrage among women and healthcare providers.

The closure of the Albany Midwifery Practice underscores the need for sustainable funding and backing for models of care that prioritize women and midwives. By investing in such models, the healthcare system can address midwife shortages and improve the quality of care, ultimately benefiting both mothers and babies without the need for further inquiries.