Research in midwifery--the relevance of a feminist theoretical framework.

As midwifery develops as a discipline and new models of care are introduced within maternity services, research activity and inquiry into practice and professional issues will be required. This paper suggests that an appropriate theoretical underpinning for research in midwifery is one that is based on feminist theory. It is argued that by adopting this approach, midwifery practice will focus on the needs of women and change in the provision of services for childbearing women will be in response to women's evaluation of existing services. By addressing the needs of women it is argued that the profession will also benefit, as the role of midwifery in the health care of childbearing women will be defined.