Alan - while I was in hospital with Gabby, I had a male midwife for a couple of his shifts and I can safely say that I preferred him. I was having trouble with my supply and he was SUCH a great help! He didn't try to milk me like a cow like some of the female midwives did. Instead he offered an ear to listen, some great advice, kind words and he helped me with the pumps and all the stuff that goes with them. I did hear him ask some of the female midwives if they could help out with a couple of his patients because they preferred to not have a male help them out. I felt sad for him... obviously he does the job because he enjoys it and is good at it. I guess that's the big dilemma of being a male in a "female" domain, hey?
I'd definitely consider hiring an independent male midwife if I got along well with him and offered a good service (like Kelly suggested).
I prefer having a male doctor too. I don't know why... I just feel more comfortable.
I'm secretly hoping that Hamilton Base Hospital has a male midwife there somewhere.... hehehe.