Participation Type
Film
Session Title
Session 1.18 Gender and Sexuality
Presentation #1 Title
Shelter from the Storm: Midwifery in Appalachia
Presentation #1 Abstract or Summary
Midwifery is a time-honored tradition whose presence is ingrained in certain cultures and pockets of society, especially those that are traditionally considered underserved. As a result of multiple factors, Appalachia is one of those segments of society. Separated from much of the country by rugged geography and rather insular social constructs, as well as a cultural predilection for staying in one locale for a lifetime, the region's characteristics make it a fertile environment for midwifery to thrive due to the two's parallel value structures. Historically, the Appalachian population has valued independence, autonomy, and an intimate community life. The main foci of midwifery fully support and mirror these—midwives strive to ensure women feel empowered and knowledgeable enough to take charge of their own health and that of their babies, and they prefer to establish a close relationship with each patient, as well as their family. These values are what distinguish traditional midwifery from the medically focused mindset of physician-managed obstetrics and gynecology. Following experiences in both, the contrasts between the two become strikingly apparent. This documentary and brief subsequent discussion aim to first introduce the audience to the world of midwifery in Appalachia, and then to review the differences that a traditional OB/Gyn model of care possesses while focusing on the region's practical limitations that affect and often determine most women's health choices.
At-A-Glance Bio- Presenter #1
Sarah Johnson is a third year medical student at Marshall University's Joan C. Edwards School of Medicine with particular interests in women's health and medical history. Her family's deep roots in West Virginia brought her back to the state several years ago, and she's thankful everyday for the experiences she's had here. In her (albeit limited) free time, she enjoys volunteering, crafting, and playing with her puppy, Rosie.
Shelter from the Storm: Midwifery in Appalachia
Harris Hall 302
Midwifery is a time-honored tradition whose presence is ingrained in certain cultures and pockets of society, especially those that are traditionally considered underserved. As a result of multiple factors, Appalachia is one of those segments of society. Separated from much of the country by rugged geography and rather insular social constructs, as well as a cultural predilection for staying in one locale for a lifetime, the region's characteristics make it a fertile environment for midwifery to thrive due to the two's parallel value structures. Historically, the Appalachian population has valued independence, autonomy, and an intimate community life. The main foci of midwifery fully support and mirror these—midwives strive to ensure women feel empowered and knowledgeable enough to take charge of their own health and that of their babies, and they prefer to establish a close relationship with each patient, as well as their family. These values are what distinguish traditional midwifery from the medically focused mindset of physician-managed obstetrics and gynecology. Following experiences in both, the contrasts between the two become strikingly apparent. This documentary and brief subsequent discussion aim to first introduce the audience to the world of midwifery in Appalachia, and then to review the differences that a traditional OB/Gyn model of care possesses while focusing on the region's practical limitations that affect and often determine most women's health choices.
