: The term has been used since at least the late 18th century, with the Oxford English Dictionary tracing its English usage back to 1795.
: They are skilled individuals authorized to practice deliveries and, in some legal contexts, draw up official attestations of birth. accoucheuse
: While "accoucheuse" refers specifically to a woman, the male counterpart is an accoucheur . : The term has been used since at
An is a female birth attendant, often used as a more formal or French-derived term for a midwife or a female obstetrician. The word comes from the French verb accoucher , meaning "to give birth" or "to deliver," and literally translates to "one who is present at the bedside". Key Characteristics and Usage in some legal contexts