EDYTHE L. MANGINDIN RN, RM, MSc, IBCLC

MIDWIFE

Edythe L. Mangindin has experience as a midwife in the prenatal and postnatal maternity ward at Landspítali Hospital and is currently pursuing a doctorate in midwifery alongside her clinical work. She also works as a part-time lecturer at the University of Iceland, serves on the board of The Association of Internationally Board-Certified Lactation Consultants of Iceland, has served on the board of the Women of Multicultural Ethnicity Network in Iceland (W.O.M.E.N.) and on the board of the Icelandic Midwifery Association. She is also on the editorial board of the Icelandic Journal of Midwifery.

Edythe has placed special emphasis on the care of women of foreign origin and is particularly interested in women's autonomy in decision-making, informed choice and culturally sensitive care. Here interests are reflected in all the care she provides for families during the childbirth process.

Edythe works as a midwife at Reykjavík Birth Center is also a breastfeeding consultant and provides specialized breastfeeding counseling for clients of the birth center.

"In 2009 I moved to Iceland from the United States. I decided to leave my job, my apartment, friends and family for love and adventure. Shortly after moving, I became pregnant with my first child in this new country. It was a very beautiful time of my life, but still very challenging. I knew no one but my husband and his family. I didn’t speak Icelandic. I was far away from my family. I was a foreigner. I was like a fish on dry land.

On the other hand, I was in a country where pregnancy is considered a natural and normal process. Women are encouraged to give birth without intervention, if possible. I regularly went to a midwife who was very professional, warm and encouraging. I enjoyed going to prenatal yoga classes to prepare myself physically and mentally for the upcoming birth. I also read all the books written by American midwife Ina May Gaskin. My husband and I also attended a parenting class held in English. I was prepared to give birth. I remember every moment of my labor and birth. I felt really well the entire time during labor, and the experience of giving birth in this manner - conscious, calm and free from fear – was empowering for me. I felt I had regained faith in myself, and my self-esteem changed for the better. I felt compelled to share my experience and wanted to help other women have the same experience. Especially women of foreign origin. This life experience piqued my interest in midwifery. I was inspired."

- Edythe