Birth Without Doctors: Conversations with Traditional Midwives by Jacqueline Vincent-Priya is an insightful exploration into traditional birthing practices in rural communities of Malaysia and Indonesia, where modern medical assistance is often inaccessible due to cost and distance. The book is based on conversations between the author, traditional midwives, and mothers, documenting birthing practices passed down through generations.
The author highlights the impressive safety record of traditional births in these communities, noting that many practices are based on sound herbal remedies and religious understanding. The book goes beyond simply showcasing the skills of these midwives; it challenges the modern medical view of pregnancy as an illness and instead offers a perspective where childbirth is a natural, community-centred process. This work emphasises the importance of ritual, family, and society in the birthing process, offering a unique and valuable insight into the world of barefoot midwifery.
