Global Midwives

London’s midwives face an unusual challenge. In some parts of the city about three quarters of the mothers they care for were born outside the UK. Some hospitals have responded by employing midwives from abroad to cope with this growing demand. How do they overcome language barriers and cultural issues around birth? Are some of the issues pregnant women face better served by midwives from their own communities?

Presenter Smitha Mundasad worked as a doctor looking after newborn babies in London. In this programme she talks to midwives with personal experience of female genital mutilation and midwives who provide care for mothers on the edge of society, those here illegally and those living isolated lives in one of the world’s most diverse cities.

Produced by Rosamund Jones

Image: Laima Kabwe-Atala, Maternity Ward Co-ordinator at Newham Hospital, part of Bart's Trust, London