Track 13: Midwifery

Midwifery Description (Extended Version)

Midwifery is a specialized healthcare profession that provides comprehensive care to women throughout pregnancy, labor, birth, and the postpartum period. Rooted in a holistic and woman-centered philosophy, midwifery emphasizes the natural processes of pregnancy and childbirth, focusing on physical, emotional, and psychological well-being.

Midwives are trained professionals who offer a wide range of services, including:

• Prenatal Care: Regular checkups, screenings, nutritional guidance, and emotional support.

• Labor and Birth Support: Monitoring labor progress, offering pain relief techniques, and assisting in safe vaginal deliveries.

• Postpartum Care: Follow-up visits, breastfeeding support, maternal recovery, and newborn care.

• Health Education: Promoting informed decision-making and educating families on childbirth, parenting, and reproductive health.

Midwives can practice in a variety of settings, including hospitals, birth centers, clinics, and private homes. They often work independently or in collaboration with obstetricians and other healthcare providers, especially in high-risk situations that require medical intervention.

The midwifery model of care is known for its personalized approach, reduced intervention rates, and higher satisfaction among birthing individuals. It supports continuity of care and respectful, culturally sensitive treatment.