International Midwives Day
International Midwives Day is an annual celebration honoring midwives worldwide for their crucial role in providing care to mothers and newborns. This day raises awareness about the midwifery profession and its importance in healthcare systems globally.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: May 5th
- Tagged as: Healthcare, Women’s Health, Maternal Care
- What’s the hashtag?: #IDM2025
- When was it founded?: 1992
- Who founded it?: International Confederation of Midwives (ICM)
History of International Midwives Day
The concept of International Midwives Day emerged during an International Confederation of Midwives conference in the Netherlands in 1987. The day was officially established in 1992 to celebrate and raise awareness about the midwifery profession. Since then, it has been observed annually on May 5th by over 50 nations and international organizations such as the WHO and UNFPA.
Timeline
- 1987: Concept created at ICM conference in the Netherlands
- 1992: First International Midwives Day celebrated on May 7th
- 2011: State of the World’s Midwifery Report (SoWMy) published for the first time
- 2014: Observed in various countries, including New Zealand and Iran
- 2025: Theme announced as “Midwives: Critical in Every Crisis”
International Midwives Day Dates
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | May 5 | Monday |
| 2026 | May 5 | Tuesday |
| 2027 | May 5 | Wednesday |
| 2028 | May 5 | Friday |
| 2029 | May 5 | Saturday |
| 2030 | May 5 | Sunday |
Observed International Midwives Day
The day is celebrated with various events and activities worldwide. Midwives, healthcare professionals, and organizations come together to honor the profession and raise awareness about its importance. Seminars, social gatherings, and public demonstrations are common ways to mark the occasion.
In some countries, landmarks are illuminated in colors associated with midwifery. For example, in 2022, Bristol and Belfast city halls in the UK were lit up in berry and tangerine, the colors of the Royal College of Midwives.
The International Confederation of Midwives selects a theme each year to focus on specific aspects of midwifery. For 2025, the theme is “Midwives: Critical in Every Crisis,” highlighting the essential role midwives play during challenging times.
Fun Facts About International Midwives Day
- Midwives can provide up to 90% of sexual, reproductive, maternal, newborn, and adolescent health services.
- The day is observed by over 50 nations around the world.
- Social media graphics packages are distributed by the ICM to encourage online advocacy.
- Some celebrations include activities with local schoolchildren to educate them about midwifery.
- Virtual events and video conferences have become popular ways to celebrate the day, especially in recent years.
Quiz
- When is International Midwives Day celebrated?
- Who established International Midwives Day?
- What is the theme for International Midwives Day 2025?
- In which year was the first State of the World’s Midwifery Report published?
- How many nations observe International Midwives Day?
(Answers: 1. May 5th, 2. International Confederation of Midwives, 3. Midwives: Critical in Every Crisis, 4. 2011, 5. Over 50)
FAQs
What is the purpose of International Midwives Day?
International Midwives Day aims to celebrate midwives’ contributions, raise awareness about their profession, and advocate for improved midwifery resources and recognition.
How can I participate in International Midwives Day?
You can participate by attending local events, sharing information on social media, thanking midwives in your community, or organizing awareness activities.
Why are midwives important in healthcare?
Midwives play a crucial role in reducing maternal and neonatal mortality, providing essential care during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum periods, and offering various reproductive health services.
What challenges do midwives face globally?
Midwives often face challenges such as shortages in the workforce, lack of support, low status, and poor pay, especially in developing countries.
How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected midwifery?
The pandemic has highlighted the critical role of midwives in healthcare systems and their ability to adapt and provide essential services even during crises.
Importance of International Midwives Day
International Midwives Day is crucial for recognizing the vital role midwives play in healthcare systems worldwide. It serves as a platform to advocate for better working conditions, improved education, and increased investment in midwifery services.
The day also helps raise public awareness about the importance of midwives in reducing maternal and neonatal mortality rates. By highlighting their contributions, it encourages more support for the profession and helps attract new individuals to pursue careers in midwifery.
Furthermore, International Midwives Day provides an opportunity to discuss global health issues related to maternal and child health, promoting dialogue and action towards improving healthcare access and quality for women and newborns worldwide.
Related
- World Health Day
- International Nurses Day
- World Breastfeeding Week
- Safe Motherhood Day
- World Prematurity Day
