Ludovic Frère works as a midwife. During European Vaccination Week, in which the Jean-Coulon de Gourdon hospital took part, he informed the public about his duties.
“Midwife” for a man, does that appeal to you?
In truth, the appropriate name is “maieutician”, who according to the Socratic method gives birth to spirits by leading them towards the truth. By extension, this name has spread to the world of medicine to designate male midwives.
How do you decide to become a midwife?
After my first year of medical school, there was no more room. So I analyzed the needs and my aspirations. Shorter studies, it was very attractive, and I was looking for a versatile profession that requires care, diagnosis and reflection, . At the sight of closed maternities and the high demand, I adopted this profession.
What is the reaction of women to the fact that it is a man who manages the delivery?
No behavior in particular, patients are used to doctors of both sexes, gynecologists are often men.
Accustomed to a feminine atmosphere, what do your colleagues say?
My colleagues say it’s great to have a man in the team, that it balances the tensions.