Alan, when I first started reading your posts on BB it was the first time I had come across a male midwife (and I still haven't IRL) and I thought, "how strange, a male midwife". But thinking about it, I don't think it's so strange at all. After all, most obs and gyns are male so it's really no different.

I generally prefer male docs but have a female ob - not because she's female but because she's good and was highly recommended (and I really like her). But it's really in spite of her being female rather than because she is female IYKWIM?

I probably wouldn't engage a private mw, mostly because I have such quick labours that they probably wouldn't make it in time, and I have an ob I really trust. Also at the hossy where the boys were born you have one on one mw care (and with a quick labour I don't really have to worry about shift changes). But if I were to, now that I have thought about it, I would definitely consider a male mw. I think sometimes it is an advantage having someone who is there against the norm IYKWIM, male mws must be there because they really enjoy it, and they must be employed or able to sustain a private practice because they are good at what they do.

I also am a firm believer in giving things a go so you don't have regrets. If you are considering this, you should go for it.

Good luck, I wish you all the very best.