Joan Skinner has been a midwife for 50 years, and during that time it’s fair to say, she’s seen it all.
Since starting in the profession in 1976, midwifery has undergone extraordinary change; both in terms of the social and political context here in New Zealand, but also the way women are supported to give birth.
She’s seen a growing reliance on technology, the re-acceptance of birth at home, and the return of midwifery autonomy.
Joan Skinner has recently written a book, Labour of Love, which is part social history of midwifery in New Zealand, but also part memoir about her incredible career.
Beyond her time working here in Aotearoa, Joan has also consulted for the World Health Organsiation and the United Nations, including in Afghanistan, North Korea and Cambodia.
Lister to her interview with Susie Ferguson on Nine to Noon here.
