Midwifery Practice Leaders’ Experiences of Practice Changes Early in the COVID‐19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Exploration

Introduction The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic generated considerable upheaval in all sectors of the US health care system, including maternity care. We focused this inquiry on midwifery practice leaders’ experiences and perspectives on changes that occurred in their practices early in the pandemic. Methods This was a qualitative descriptive study using thematic analysis. The data were responses to an open‐ended question in a survey of pandemic‐related employment and clinical practice changes. Findings are presented from a constructivist perspective, describing the experiences and perspectives of a group of US midwifery practice leaders during the initial phase of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Results Two main themes emerged from the analysis: demands on midwives and driving forces. Demands on midwives were 3‐fold: clients’ needs, modification of care, and midwives’ needs. These encompassed the psychological, physical, and emotional toll that caring for women during the pandemic placed on midwives. Driving forces were those entities that spurred and directed change and included regulations, institutions, financial logistics, and team dynamics. Survey respondents in community (home and birth center) practices reported substantial increases in inquiries and client volume, and many respondents expressed concern about withdrawal of students from clinical placements. Discussion Midwifery practices experienced profound changes in their work environments during the COVID‐19 pandemic, with both positive and negative characteristics. These challenges in providing birth care were similar to those reported in other countries. Results indicated existing guidance for maternity care during emergencies did not meet clients’ needs. Coordinated planning for maternity care in future prolonged health emergencies should incorporate best practices and include midwives in the process.