Space, place and the midwife: Exploring the relationship between the birth environment, neurobiology and midwifery practice

Research indicates that midwives and their practice are influenced by space and place and that midwives practice differently in different places. It is possible that one mechanism through which space and place influence midwifery practice is via neurobiological responses such as the production and release of oxytocin, which can be triggered by experiences and perceptions of the physical environment. Aim: To articulate the si