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)