The "nirvana" cmnmeot was a bit of tongue in cheek, of course. From what I understand, Denmark is a bit of one.You are correct about the spectrum of midwives, one of the things I observed can go wrong in US studies with the inclusion of just any old type of midwife. But I feel that if midwifery were more institutionalized and accepted, the overall caliber among the profession would be lifted, as well. My midwives have all been CNMs and have all had OB backup, and I think that's a good balance.I think unprofessional, condescending, and inflammatory are a few factors that send women looking for other options across the spectrum of reproductive care.I'd love to read your ideas. I'm sure they're rational and practical.I'm very aware of the woo and the wooest in homebirthy circles. That's what I consider to be one end of the spectrum, with unassisted homebirth being at that very edge.