2024, Vol. 7, Issue 1, Part A

author(s)
Md. Ashikur Rahman Khan and Muhammed Yildirim

abstract
Midwifery care plays a pivotal role in improving maternal and newborn health outcomes, significantly contributing to the reduction of maternal mortality. This relationship is explored through a comprehensive analysis of evidence demonstrating that midwives, when fully integrated into the healthcare system with appropriate education, regulation, and support, can provide a wide range of essential health services. These services include antenatal care, management of normal births, detection and referral of complications, and postnatal care. A systematic review by Renfrew et al. (2014) highlights that care within the scope of midwifery is associated with reduced maternal and neonatal mortality and morbidity, fewer unnecessary interventions during childbirth, increased spontaneous vaginal births, and higher satisfaction rates among mothers. Moreover, midwives' role in providing continuous, supportive care throughout the pre-pregnancy, pregnancy, childbirth, and postnatal periods is crucial for promoting healthy outcomes. However, barriers such as limited access to quality education and training for midwives, restrictive policies, and cultural challenges can hinder the full utilization of midwifery services. Addressing these barriers is essential for maximizing the potential of midwives in reducing maternal mortality globally. The evidence supports a shift towards a maternal and newborn care model that emphasizes the preventive and supportive care midwives provide, tailored to the needs of women and their families, within an effectively regulated healthcare system.