ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the meaning of social support and related concepts, and reviews the theoretical underpinnings and research evidence as to its effectiveness and its relevance to the transition and experience of childbirth. It also discusses the balance between professional interventions and ordinary sources of support, noting that the evidence does not always suggest that health professionals are the best providers of social support. The chapter focuses on social support and its relationship with the health of mothers and, through this, their children. It explores the meanings and applications of the concept and some of the research evidence that underlines its importance. The chapter then critically examines the historical and current relationship between social support and the practice of midwifery and suggests some indications for the future of midwifery care. There is growing evidence to suggest a complex relationship between stress and anxiety and the hormone oxytocin, which plays an important role in pregnancy and labour and in maternal attachment.
