Back to the future of women's health and perinatal nursing in the 21st century.

Trends in women's health and perinatal nursing practice in the 21st century can be projected through looking back at our profession's history. Highlighted in this preview of nursing's future are the societal influences predicted to promote the essence of professional practice, influence our educational processes, and guide our research investigations. Most important among these influences is that of ritual-busting nursing research, which is predicted to elucidate outcomes of practice and provide the groundwork for change. However, research-driven change endorses the shedding of an antiquated maternity nurse image and practice. A call is made for accountability, ethical thinking, and reciprocal nurse trust for professional survival in the future.