Midwifery in Iran has had an academic background for almost 100 years resulting in licensed independent midwives supported by the government. This presentation will discuss a private midwifery clinic offering all midwifery, obstetric and women’s health services and the changes needed to encourage normal birth. Women commonly requested Caesarean Section to preserve their perineum.
Both women and the medical team needed educated about the benefits of normal birth. The media was involved making programs showing normal birth. Training courses were provided for midwives which included managing waterbirths. Medical protocols were written for the use of for example non pharmacological pain relief.
Progress was slow but a highlight was the first water birth baby, when mother and father were delighted to find that no perineal damage occurred. Mothers began to discuss these outcomes and they became more popular. Demand is growing
