The World Health Organization (WHO) has released new guidance urging countries to adopt midwifery-led care models, where midwives serve as primary providers for women during pregnancy, childbirth, and postnatal care.
The guidelines highlight the proven benefits of midwifery care, including higher rates of healthy vaginal births and greater patient satisfaction. Strong communication between midwives and mothers is key to these positive outcomes.
A Lifesaving, Cost-Effective Approach
Despite progress, maternal and newborn deaths remain alarmingly high, especially in low-income regions. Research shows that universal access to skilled midwives could prevent over 60% of these deaths—saving 4.3 million lives annually by 2035.
Midwifery models prioritize informed choice, emotional support, and non-invasive techniques—such as movement during labor and varied birthing positions—to reduce unnecessary medical interventions.
Reducing Over-Medicalization in Childbirth
While medical procedures like C-sections are lifesaving when needed, excessive use poses risks. In some countries, cesarean rates exceed 50%, indicating many may be medically unnecessary.
“Midwives help women trust their bodies and abilities,” said Ulrika Rehnstrom Loi, WHO’s midwifery expert. “Investing in midwifery improves health outcomes and ensures respectful, individualized care.”
Implementation Tools for Nations
The WHO guidance provides practical steps for countries to transition to midwifery-led care, including:
- Strong political commitment and long-term funding.
- High-quality midwifery education and regulation.
- Collaboration between midwives, doctors, and nurses for comprehensive care.
A Global Necessity
Millions of women still give birth without skilled care, and many miss critical prenatal checkups. Progress in reducing maternal deaths has stalled since 2016.
“Midwifery isn’t just a smart solution—it’s a necessity,” said Anna Ugglas of the International Confederation of Midwives. “It restores dignity, safety, and autonomy to childbirth.”
Adaptable Models for Different Settings
The WHO outlines several midwifery care approaches, including:
Continuity of care: A known midwife or small team supports women throughout pregnancy and after birth.
Midwife-led birth centers: Facilities for low-risk deliveries, often offering additional services.
Community-based care: Midwives provide services through mobile units or local clinics.
Private practice: Independent midwives integrated into national health systems.
The WHO emphasizes that midwifery models are adaptable to all countries, offering a proven path to safer, more respectful maternal healthcare worldwide.
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