On International Day of the Midwife (5 May), I would like to say thank you to all midwives, and those who support them in providing the best maternity care experience possible, across the UK. 

Midwifery is a highly skilled, safety-critical profession. Caring for those going through childbirth is a privilege, but it also requires immense dedication. You have to be there with the person you are caring for, not just physically but also emotionally. An intricate mix of knowledge, skills, sound judgement and decision making is required to provide the best possible care during the most intimate and vulnerable moments of someone's life. 

This is a profession to be valued and celebrated, despite all the challenges that appear ahead of us. It can be easy to lose heart when presented with reports that are critical of the care provided in some circumstances, but I urge all midwives to remember why they chose their profession, and what really matters - providing safe and effective care, and enjoying the work.  

Every journey through pregnancy and birth is a unique one, often unpredictable, usually positive, sometimes challenging and occasionally devastating. The role the midwife plays in supporting and listening to those we care for is critical to how that experience will be remembered.

The theme for this year’s IDM is ‘Critical in every crisis’. The focus internationally will be around the huge challenges midwives face in war zones, civil unrest, famine, and following natural disasters. The recent earthquake in Myanmar and the surrounding areas is a clear example of how midwives facing such horror will manage a reasonable level of care with very limited resources and infrastructure.

Here in the UK, we are so fortunate to not face challenges on this scale. But our midwives are still having to cope with issues such as the ever-present staff shortages, the complexities of the cases we are presented with and the reduction in services, for example home birth. In 2024, the UK government described the NHS as one of the safest places in the world to give birth. However, multiple reports and independent investigations have highlighted ongoing problems in maternity care in England. 

Despite this, midwives continue to provide the best care they can and should be celebrated for persevering, being with everyone going through childbirth, listening to them and using their expertise and wisdom to provide safe and effective care.  

We are mindful of the unique experience of childbirth, regardless of a person’s circumstances. We know those from the global majority face even greater challenges in childbirth than their white British counterparts. We know that disability and vulnerabilities, such as domestic abuse, modern slavery and homelessness all contribute to making childbirth more complex.

We also know about the difficulties faced by transgender and non-binary people in accessing health and care services. Midwifery will continue to offer person-centred care which respects the autonomy, lived experiences, and identities of those we support during childbirth.

To support women and pregnant people through their pregnancy, the birth of a child, and afterwards to see the relationship developing and the joy of parenthood beginning, is a privilege. It is not always easy, but it is always an honour to share this very special time.

Happy International Day of the Midwife to you.