Title: Changing the course of history – Midwives, Midwifery
Speaker: Jacqueline Dunkley-Bent
Facilitator(s): Cecilia Jevitt
This session describes the impact of midwives as a ripple through generations and the significant contribution midwives make throughout the life course. Listeners will be challenged to reflect on their contribution to childbirth experiences and outcomes within the context of the changing world. Years from now will we throw up our hands or role up our sleeves? The session will end with a call to action.
Recording: https://youtu.be/RNcRroY3U2k
Speakers: Linley Taylor and Claire Macdonald
Facilitator: Linda Deys
Abstract:
Background – Natural disasters are usually unexpected and sudden, carrying prolonged after-effects for communities. Throughout disasters, pregnant women and people continue to give birth, so midwives must continue providing essential care for pregnancy, labour and birth and postpartum. Aotearoa New Zealand has universal health coverage for maternity care through a community midwifery continuity-of-care model, integrated with hospital-based midwifery and obstetric services. This enabled continuous care provision throughout the Canterbury earthquakes in 2011-2012, and Cyclone Gabrielle in Hawke’s Bay in 2023. However, there were unforeseen challenges. In a high-resource country, the unexpected loss of transport (including road damage) and phone/internet connectivity during the cyclone highlighted our heavy reliance on technology. Discussion – We share experiences from practice in the midwifery caseloading model which enabled a nimble and often autonomous response to meet clients’ needs. Factors supporting midwives’ care provision were: responsibility for a caseload; carrying full homebirth kits in their cars; group practice arrangements; strong interdisciplinary collegial relationships; integration with hospital services; and national support from the College of Midwives. Planning for the future should include infrastructural support for community midwives; satellite internet phone connectivity; access to generators and fuel; the inclusion of community health provision in Civil Defence planning; and contemplation by midwives as to how ready they might be in their personal lives if disaster struck today. Conclusion – Community caseloading midwifery models should be protected, supported and included in future disaster planning.
Recording: https://youtu.be/vEe1E2iBTJY
The Role of Midwifery in Respectful Maternal Care and Mental Health through the Wellbeing Foundation Africa’s Mamacare360 Program
Speaker: Toyin Saraki
Co-Presenters: Dr. Pragya Vishwakarma, Ms. Eunice AlexGreat Akhigbe
Facilitator(s): Halima Abdul
Abstract:
The Mamacare360 program, implemented by the Wellbeing Foundation Africa (WBFA) Midwives, is aligned with Goal 3 of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, which aims to ensure good health and wellbeing for all. Central to its mission is the enhancement of maternal health through the promotion of Respectful Maternity Care (RMC) for all women throughout the continuum of pregnancy, childbirth, and the postnatal period. Recognising the pivotal role of the relationship between pregnant women and their primary healthcare providers in shaping health outcomes for both mother and newborn, WBFA highlights the significance of this connection in fostering postnatal health and wellbeing.
Respectful maternity care is upheld as a fundamental human right, deserving of every childbearing woman within every healthcare system globally (WRA, 2010). WBFA advocates for this principle, emphasising the inherent dignity and autonomy of women throughout the childbirth process. This ethos is echoed in the Lancet Midwifery Series (2014), which asserts that midwifery is indispensable in addressing the challenges associated with delivering high-quality maternal and newborn care universally. Moreover, it is recognized as an effective strategy for promoting the health and wellbeing of women of reproductive age, newborns, and their families, thereby exerting a significant and sustainable impact on population health outcomes. Through a grassroots and community-led approach, Mamacare360 not only delivers essential maternal and child health services but also fosters a culture of empowerment and resilience among women.
This presentation will explore the multifaceted impact of Mamacare360, with a particular emphasis on the transformative power of midwifery. By bringing skilled midwives directly to the doorsteps of communities, the program ensures access to quality prenatal, childbirth, and postnatal care, thereby reducing maternal and infant mortality rates. By engaging with local women as advocates and educators, Mamacare360 cultivates a sense of ownership over maternal health, fostering sustainable improvements in healthcare-seeking behaviours.
The Mamacare360 program also acknowledges the often-overlooked aspect of maternal mental health. Recognising the profound impact of psychological wellbeing on maternal and child outcomes, the program integrates mental health support into its holistic approach. Through counselling, peer support groups, and community outreach initiatives, Mamacare360 addresses the unique challenges faced by mothers, promoting mental resilience and overall wellbeing.
Recording: https://youtu.be/8l4fhB_1C88
Enhancing Obstetric Prehospital Care: Insights from Midwives in Lima, Peru
Speaker: Ginger Garcia
Facilitator(s): Susana Ku
Abstract:
This presentation delves into the experiences of a dedicated group of midwives in Lima, Peru, who possess specialized training to provide prehospital care during natural disasters. Peru’s diverse climate often leads to natural disasters that directly impact communities, underscoring the critical need for immediate attention in such situations. While the overarching approach is holistic, special emphasis is placed on the most vulnerable populations, including women, children, and the elderly. The goal is to deliver swift and timely care, focusing on prevention and support for women amidst crises. Furthermore, sustainability is prioritized, with an emphasis on resource efficiency and waste reduction, promoting natural childbirth, exclusive breastfeeding, and optimal nutrition. Recognizing the adverse effects of climate change on maternal and fetal health, proactive measures are taken to address eventualities swiftly and effectively.
Check the time in your location: https://bit.ly/VIDM24-closing-session
Recording: Not Available
