International Midwives' Day

International Midwives' Day is celebrated globally on May 5th each year to honor and recognize the critical role midwives play in the health care profession, particularly in the realm of maternal and newborn health care. The day is an opportunity to acknowledge the vital contributions midwives make towards improving sexual, reproductive, maternal, and newborn health outcomes worldwide. It also serves as a platform to raise awareness about the challenges midwives face and to advocate for policies that support and strengthen midwifery.

History

International Midwives' Day was first proposed and established by the International Confederation of Midwives (ICM) in 1987. The ICM, an accredited non-governmental organization representing midwives and midwifery associations globally, aimed to promote the status and recognition of midwives as essential healthcare professionals. The date, May 5th, was chosen to coincide with the ancient celebrations of the return of fertility in the northern hemisphere, symbolizing the link between midwifery and the nurturing of life.

Significance

The day underscores the importance of midwives in reducing maternal and neonatal mortality and morbidity rates. Midwives are trained professionals who provide essential healthcare services before, during, and after childbirth. They play a crucial role in delivering safe, respectful, and culturally sensitive care, which is fundamental to achieving positive pregnancy and childbirth experiences. International Midwives' Day also highlights the need for more midwives and the importance of their education, training, and professional development to meet global health targets, such as those outlined in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 3, which focuses on ensuring healthy lives and promoting well-being for all at all ages.

Themes

Each year, International Midwives' Day is celebrated with a specific theme chosen by the ICM to focus attention on particular aspects of midwifery. Past themes have included "Midwives with women: celebrate, demonstrate, mobilize, unite – our time is NOW!" and "Midwives: Defenders of Women's Rights." These themes reflect the multifaceted role of midwives in advocating for women's rights, improving health outcomes, and mobilizing communities and healthcare systems towards respecting and valuing the birthing process.

Celebrations and Activities

Activities to mark International Midwives' Day vary globally and include workshops, conferences, marches, and community events aimed at promoting the work of midwives and advocating for their support. These events provide opportunities for midwives to share knowledge, skills, and experiences, and for communities to learn about the importance of midwifery care. Governments, healthcare organizations, and educational institutions also use this day to commit to actions that support and enhance the midwifery profession.

Challenges

Despite their crucial role, midwives face numerous challenges, including a lack of recognition and support, inadequate working conditions, and insufficient access to education and professional development opportunities. Addressing these challenges is essential for strengthening midwifery services and ensuring that all women and newborns have access to high-quality care.

Conclusion

International Midwives' Day serves as a reminder of the indispensable role of midwives in healthcare systems worldwide. It is a call to action for governments, healthcare providers, and communities to support and invest in midwifery to improve maternal and newborn health outcomes. Celebrating this day helps to ensure that the voices of midwives are heard and that their contributions are recognized and valued.