Reflexivity: a review of the literature in the context of midwifery research

This article critically examines the existing midwifery literature associated with reflexivity. Reflexivity is a widely accepted concept central to qualitative research methodology. The importance of this process is highlighted demonstrating how it remains an integral part of ensuring the transparency and quality of research inquiry. This article sets out to review the literature; expand the concept of reflexivity from a midwifery perspective and reinforces the need for practitioner researchers to gain understanding and acknowledge reflexivity. This will ensure strong and trustworthy inquiry and allow the researcher to explore and make sense of the relationship between themselves, the research and the object of research.