What is the reality of being a midwife at the beginning of the twenty-first century? What is it like to help and support women throughout pregnancy and childbirth and into motherhood? What roles can midwives play in society? ''Becoming a Midwife'' explores what it is to be a midwife, looking at the factors that make midwifery such a special profession, as well as some of the challenges. The chapters cover a variety of settings and several different stages in a woman's pregnancy. Each one is narrated by a midwife who introduces their own theme, recounts a vignette that throws light on their understanding of midwifery and reasons for becoming a midwife and any subsequent career moves. Drawing together these insights, the editors show what it means to be a midwife today. Suitable for those contemplating a career in midwifery and providing an opportunity for reflection for more experienced midwives, this thought-provoking book is an invaluable contribution to midwifery.