Risk, fear and safety

This chapter aids in the understanding of why risk is such an important concept in maternity care. It begins by presenting some of the key theoretical approaches and how these are related to midwifery. What becomes clear is that the understanding and management of risk and fear are not simple matters. However, the concerns related to risk need not always engender fear and anxiety. The second part of the chapter looks at the role that fear plays in maternity care. The final section of this chapter provides a framework that the midwife can use to support safe, effective and life-affirming care within this risk environment. The framework acknowledges the complex and often paradoxical nature of midwifery practice and provides a way for the midwife to put the management of risk into practice and into perspective.