International Midwives Day

International Midwives Day is a worldwide holiday dedicated to midwives. These professionals support mothers and newborns during pregnancy, labor, delivery, and the postpartum period. The holiday is celebrated annually on May 5.

History of International Midwives Day

International Midwives Day began in 1992, when several countries took part in the first celebrations. The initiative is commonly associated with the International Confederation of Midwives, which is based in the Netherlands.

Midwifery and obstetric care have existed since ancient times. In Greece, Egypt, and other cultures, there were practitioners who specialized in childbirth, and some early written guidance on delivery has survived, even though many of those practices were limited by the medical knowledge of the time.

Obstetrics developed significantly starting in the 16th century. A childbirth manual by E. Rößlin appeared, and later works by J. Rueff and W. Reyff contributed to the field’s growth. Today, obstetrics and midwifery are specialized areas of healthcare, supported by modern training, evidence-based standards, and medical technology. Outcomes have improved substantially, especially when complications require timely medical support.

Interesting Facts About International Midwives Day

• Only a small share of babies are born on the exact estimated due date.
• A newborn’s heart rate is typically much faster than an adult’s and can be quite high right after birth.
• Historically, childbirth was far riskier than it is today, largely because of limited hygiene practices, poor nutrition, and a lack of effective medical care.

How International Midwives Day Is Observed

International Midwives Day is often marked by professional events, public education campaigns, and messages of thanks for midwives and maternity care teams. Individuals may also choose to:

• Thank a midwife or maternity care professional who provided support to their family.
• Learn about midwives’ responsibilities during pregnancy, delivery, and postpartum care.
• Share reliable information about maternal and newborn health and the role of midwives in improving outcomes.

When is International Midwives Day in 2026?

International Midwives Day is observed on May 5 each year.

Observations