Interested in pursuing midwifery - what should I read?

[JoyNChrist]

For several years now I have been very interested in pursuing a career in midwifery (although my bachelor's degree is in Spanish education and I'm working on my master's in education). I was very excited to find out that a local college will begin offering a midwifery program beginning this fall. My husband and I have discussed it, and it may be something that I want to pursue. I will be finished with my master's by the end of this year, so I would be ready to begin the midwifery program (a 3-year associate's program, I believe) in the fall of 2009. While I'm not 100% sure that it's something I will end up doing, it's definitely something that I'm seriously considering.

In order to help me with my decision, I've teamed up with a local midwife who will be meeting with me twice a month (for lunch of coffee or whatever) to answer any questions I have and basically just tell me stories about what she does. I also know a doula who is open to having me assist at births if her clients are okay with it.

What I'm wondering is what you think I should read during this time of decision. I know there's a list here of recommended reading for birth professionals, but it's kind of overwhelming - everything from textbooks to manuals to stories...I guess I'd just like to know where you would start if you were considering pursuing midwifery training. And then if I do decide to go for it, what should I read to prepare myself?

Thanks in advance!

[GrrlyElizabeth]

For some light reading, I'd start with Baby Catcher by Peggy Vincent. It's a very readable memoir. Next, Spiritual Midwifery by Ina May Gaskin because it's so inspiring. Then I'd move on to Heart and Hands by Elizabeth Davis for something more educational and to give you an idea of the skills/knowledge involved. Then I would consider Paths to Becoming a Midwife (don't remember the authors), which is pretty self-explanatory! Finally, I'd check out some of Sheila Kitzinger's work, maybe Tina Cassidy's Birth, or Jennifer Block's Pushed for some cultural perspectives. And then I'd ask my midwife friend where to go next! I'd hold off on the heavy textbooks for now (Varney's, Holistic Midwifery), since those aren't really for the "hmm, should I do this?" phase. Although, if you find yourself wanting to read them, that might be the confirmation you need that this is the right path for you!

Hope that helps.

[JoyNChrist]

That does help Elizabeth, thank you so much!

Interesting that you mentioned "Pushed" - I was able to meet Jennifer Block Tuesday night, and she and I had a really long talk and I got a signed copy of her book (which I'm already almost finished with...I don't know if that tells me anything, lol).