NHS midwives, although they have varying levels of experience
of providing care in these settings. There are clear referral
pathways to obstetric units if complications occur, using a
comprehensive ambulance network with trained staff. In this
regard, birth outside an obstetric unit can be described as an
integrated aspect of maternity care, although it is possible that
the low levels of provision in some areas may decrease the level
of integration in practice. Our findings may not apply to
countries where care is provided very differently.