What is the International Day of the Midwife?

The International Day of the Midwife is celebrated every year on May 5th to recognize and honor the essential role of midwives in maternal and newborn health. Established in 1992 by the International Confederation of Midwives (ICM), this day raises awareness about the vital care midwives provide to women, families, and communities. It highlights the importance of midwifery in reducing maternal and infant mortality rates and improving healthcare worldwide.

History and Origin

The idea for the International Day of the Midwife was proposed during the ICM conference in the Netherlands in 1987. The first official celebration took place in 1991, and since then, it has been observed in over 50 countries. The event aims to advocate for midwives’ rights, promote better healthcare policies, and encourage more people to join the profession. Every year, midwifery organizations, governments, and individuals come together to acknowledge the contributions of midwives and highlight ongoing challenges in maternal care.

Who Celebrates the International Day of the Midwife?

• Midwives and Midwifery Associations: Professionals and organizations worldwide come together to celebrate their contributions to healthcare.
• Healthcare Institutions: Hospitals and clinics recognize midwives by organizing special events, discussions, and training sessions.
• Government and Non-Governmental Organizations: Entities like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) participate in campaigns promoting the significance of midwifery.
• Educational Institutions: Schools and universities conduct awareness programs and discussions about the importance of midwifery in healthcare.
• Communities and Families: Individuals express gratitude for the care and support provided by midwives, often sharing stories and testimonials.

Slogans and Themes

Each year, the ICM selects a theme to focus on specific aspects of midwifery. Common slogans include “Midwives: A Vital Climate Solution,” “Midwifery Care Saves Lives,” “Supporting Midwives, Supporting Mothers,” “Midwives: Critical in Every Crisis,” and “Empowering Midwives, Strengthening Communities.” These themes emphasize midwives’ role in global health, crisis situations, and sustainable healthcare, raising awareness about their impact on maternal and newborn well-being.

Colors, Symbols, and Patterns

Colors

• Purple: Represents midwifery and is widely used in awareness campaigns.
• White: Symbolizes care, purity, and the nurturing nature of midwifery.
• Blue: Associated with healthcare and trust in medical professionals.

Symbols

• Hands: Represent the care, support, and life-giving role of midwives.
• Mother and Child Imagery: Depicts the bond between mothers and babies, emphasizing midwives’ role in safe childbirth.
• Globe Icon: Symbolizes the worldwide presence and necessity of midwifery.

Patterns

• Global Motifs: Reflect midwifery practices across different cultures.
• Circular Designs: Represent continuity, care, and the cycle of life.
• Heartbeat Patterns: Symbolizing the connection between midwives, mothers, and newborns.

How to Celebrate the International Day of the Midwife

• Attend Educational Events: Participate in seminars, webinars, and workshops on midwifery and maternal health.
• Show Appreciation: Thank midwives in your community by sending messages, gifts, or organizing recognition ceremonies.
• Engage in Social Media Campaigns: Share stories, testimonials, and facts about midwifery using official hashtags.
• Support Midwifery Advocacy: Donate to organizations promoting maternal healthcare or participate in awareness walks.
• Encourage Midwifery Education: Promote midwifery as a career choice and support educational initiatives.

Most Used Hashtags

• #IDM2025
• #InternationalDayOfTheMidwife
• #MidwivesMatter
• #SupportMidwives
• #MidwiferyCare

Why is the International Day of the Midwife Important?

The International Day of the Midwife highlights the critical role midwives play in reducing maternal and neonatal mortality rates. It raises awareness about the need for proper training, resources, and recognition for midwives to ensure safer births and healthier communities. By acknowledging their contributions, this observance also encourages more individuals to join the profession, helping to address global shortages in maternal healthcare providers. Supporting midwives means supporting the health and well-being of mothers and babies worldwide.