InMidwifery takes center stage in a powerful call to action, as the World Health Organization (WHO) has issued new guidance urging countries to adopt midwife-led models of care, citing their transformative potential to improve outcomes for mothers and newborns globally.
Midwives at the Core of Safer Births
The WHO guidance positions midwives as primary care providers for women throughout pregnancy, birth, and the postnatal period. It highlights evidence that women who get continuous care from trusted midwives are more likely to have safer births. There are fewer complications and women report higher satisfaction.
“Expanding and investing in midwifery models of care is a very effective strategy. It improves maternal and newborn health globally,” said Dr. Anshu Banerjee, Director at WHO.
A Proven, Cost-Effective Strategy
Despite advances in healthcare, maternal and newborn deaths remain high—especially in low-income settings. WHO modeling suggests that universal access to skilled midwives could prevent 4.3 million deaths per year by 2035.
Midwifery models promote informed choice and support non-invasive practices like mobility during labor, natural birthing positions, and emotional coaching—empowering women and reducing unnecessary medical interventions.
Combating Over-Medicalization of Birth
One of the most urgent concerns addressed in the guidance is the growing overuse of medical procedures like caesarean sections. In some countries, C-section rates now top 50%. These rates far exceed medically necessary levels. This overuse raises health risks for mothers and infants alike.
Midwives are trained to support natural, physiological births, intervening only when necessary and always prioritizing a woman’s autonomy and dignity.
“Skilled midwives help women trust in their bodies, their abilities, and their care,” said Ulrika Rehnstrom Loi, WHO Midwifery Expert.
Tools for Transition: What the WHO Recommends
The guidance outlines practical steps and real-world examples for implementing midwifery models of care, including:
- Political commitment and long-term health financing
- National regulation of midwifery education and standards
- Integrating midwives into multidisciplinary healthcare teams
- Ensuring midwife autonomy while enabling collaboration with doctors and nurses
From mobile midwifery in remote communities to midwife-led birthing centers in urban areas, the models are adaptable to diverse health systems and cultural contexts.
Models of Care: Flexibility Meets Results
The WHO outlines several key models:
- Continuity of care: A known midwife or small team supports the woman across pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.
- Midwife-led birth centers: Facilities designed for low-risk births with minimal intervention.
- Community-based services: Midwives provide care in homes, villages, or local health clinics.
- Private practice: Regulated midwifery services integrated into national systems.
All models aim to restore dignity, improve safety, and enhance the birthing experience for women globally.
Global Maternal Care at a Standstill
Millions of women still give birth without a skilled professional present. One-third do not receive even half of WHO’s recommended eight prenatal checks. Since 2016, progress in reducing maternal and newborn deaths has plateaued.
“Midwifery models of care are not just smart solutions—they are a necessity,” said Anna Ugglas, Chief Executive of the International Confederation of Midwives.
A Call to Restore Respect and Autonomy in Childbirth
The WHO’s guidance comes at a critical moment. With rising intervention rates, strained health systems, and persistent gaps in maternal care, midwifery presents a scalable, evidence-based, and person-centered solution.
It’s a chance to rethink childbirth—not just in clinical terms, but in human ones. A birth attended by a compassionate, skilled midwife is not just safer—it is more empowering, more respectful, and more aligned with the needs of every woman and baby.
