Ep 3. Episode 3

Episode 3 of Call the Midwife's first season showcases the harsh reality of post-war life in East London. The episode begins with the arrival of a new mother-to-be, Mrs. Jenkins, who was forced to flee her home due to poor living conditions. Jenny Lee and Trixie Franklin are sent to assist in the delivery, but they encounter obstacles along the way.

As they arrive at the mother's temporary residence, they find her toddler son unattended and in distress. They quickly realize that Mrs. Jenkins has fallen ill, throwing Jenny and Trixie into a situation where they must provide care for both the mother and her newborn.

The episode covers a range of issues that plagued post-war England, including overcrowding, poverty, and disease. This becomes apparent when they visit a family living in squalid conditions with no access to medical care. The father, suffering from a severe lung condition, refuses to seek help due to the fear of being put in a sanatorium and separated from his family.

In addition to these challenges, the midwives face opposition from a local council member who sees their work as unnecessary. Phyllis Crane, who is headstrong and determined, takes on the challenge of convincing the council that their services are vital to the community.

Meanwhile, Jenny Lee, who is still coming to terms with her new role as a midwife, begins to form bonds with the families she assists. She becomes emotionally invested in their well-being, resulting in heartwarming moments such as when she helps a single father connect with his newborn daughter.

The episode deals with the harsh realities of childbirth and the complications that can arise during the delivery process. It shows the hardship midwives faced during the time period as they struggled to provide care despite limited resources, lack of medical technology, and infrastructure. The midwives are constantly putting themselves in danger, going into homes that are often dirty and unhygienic.

Despite the difficulties, the midwives demonstrate unwavering resilience and determination to care for the families they assist. The show also recognizes the significant role that women played during the time period, as they stepped up to help those in need.

In conclusion, episode 3 of season 1 of Call the Midwife is a poignant reminder of the harsh realities of post-war life in East London. It captures the complexities of delivering care during a time of limited resources and infrastructure. The episode highlights the tireless efforts of midwives and their crucial role in providing care in the most challenging of circumstances. The show delivers powerful messages of hope, courage and resilience in the face of adversity, which is particularly timely given the current global pandemic.