03 Midwifery-Led Postpartum Care for Preeclampsia: Advancing Equity, Access and Human Rights

Speaker:- Isabella Garti

Facilitator: – Bronwyn Rideout

Abstract:- Preeclampsia remains a leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality worldwide, with significant risks persisting well into the postpartum period. Despite this, postpartum preeclampsia is frequently under-recognised, under-resourced, and inequitably managed, particularly in low-resource and marginalised settings. This presentation aims to highlight the critical role of midwives in identifying, managing, and providing ongoing support to women experiencing preeclampsia after birth, and to position midwifery-led postpartum care as a matter of equity, access, and human rights.

 Drawing on global evidence, clinical guidelines, and practice examples, the session will explore how midwives are uniquely placed to provide accessible, culturally responsive, and continuity-based care during the postpartum period. The roles of midwives in blood pressure monitoring, symptom recognition, medication support, health education, and timely referral will be examined, alongside the importance of respectful communication and informed decision-making. Particular attention will be given to settings where medical access is limited, and where midwifery care may represent the primary or sole point of postpartum contact.

 This presentation aligns with the VIDM 2026 theme Midwifery for All: Equity, Access, and Human Rights in Maternal Care by advocating for strengthened investment in midwifery services as a pathway to safer postpartum care for all women. Empowering midwives to lead postpartum preeclampsia care supports women’s rights to timely, dignified, and evidence-based maternal health care, regardless of geography, socioeconomic status, or health system context.

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Recording TBA