Before we start, I have to tell you there's some very strong language in this post. We're adults having adult conversations so you can choose whether to keep reading or not 🙂
What better way to start the new year than to consider words that are to do with new beginnings.
Language choice in midwifery isn't a new topic, but it is an important one. It's something members of The Secret Community For Midwives In The Making have been asking me to write about and as a person who loves words, I'm thrilled to do so 🙂
If you've done much midwifery reading, you'll know that many excellent midwives have reflected on the impact that language can have and there's been quite a bit of research on the subject too.
The words we choose are powerful as they carry meaning and context from our society.
I think the difference between the words 'delivery' and 'birth' illustrates this truth perfectly.