The US concept of midwives differs from the view in countries (UK for
example) where most deliveries are by midwives. In the US we see midwives,
I think, as a kind of breakaway from the traditional doctor-centered birth
experience. Therefore we think of them as alternative, baby friendly types.
Of course many many midwives in England are like this too. But since nearly
all British babies are delivered by midwives in hospital settings, that
adds up to an AWFUL LOT of midwives (if you see the OB approaching in
England you are worried - there must be a problem...) Thus there is plenty
room for the 'just give the baby a bottle' midwife as there is for the BF
devotees. My sister in law in England was converted from breast to bottle
by a midwife.....
Anne Merewood (UKer in the USA)