ABSTRACT
This chapter explores the roots of the medicalisation of childbearing, and the underlying advances in science and medicine. The emergence of the concept of risk and risk management is considered with a particular focus on its relevance to women being given informed choice as reality or illusion. Studies of the way in which women experience the maternity services have long revealed an iceberg of dissatisfaction. If this iceberg is to be melted, an exploration of its structure and form is necessary, and the resulting understanding used to set up measures to redress the balance. Sociological, midwifery and feminist theory is used to explore these issues. The chapter addresses the evolution of childbearing within the context of the science, technology and scientific/political rhetoric that now restricts women's liberties even further as they make the transition into motherhood. Yet it is the reassurance that women yearn for that is the province of midwifery care.
