May 5th marks the International Day of the Midwife, a day dedicated to honoring the crucial role midwives play in the health and well-being of mothers and babies around the world. However, in many countries, natural-birth midwives are facing discrimination and persecution for their work. The latest case of this injustice is happening in Brazil, but people are pushing back against it.
Midwives have been a part of human history for centuries, providing care and support to women during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum. They are trained professionals who possess a deep understanding of the birthing process and are equipped to handle any complications that may arise. In recent years, there has been a growing movement towards natural birth, with many women opting for home births or midwife-led births in hospitals. This has led to an increase in demand for midwives who specialize in natural birth.
However, despite their vital role in promoting safe and natural childbirth, midwives in many countries face discrimination and persecution. In Brazil, a country known for its high rates of cesarean sections, natural-birth midwives are being targeted for their work. The Brazilian government has imposed strict regulations on midwives, making it difficult for them to practice legally. Many midwives have been forced to operate underground, risking their own safety and the safety of their clients.
The situation has become even more dire with the recent arrest of midwife Adelir Carmen Lemos de Goés, who has been providing natural-birth services for over 30 years. Adelir, who is affectionately known as “Dona Adelir” by her clients, was arrested on charges of practicing medicine without a license. This is a common tactic used by authorities to target midwives and shut down their practices. Adelir’s arrest has sparked outrage among the natural-birth community in Brazil and has brought attention to the ongoing persecution of midwives in the country.
But people are not staying silent. The arrest of Adelir has led to a wave of support for midwives and their right to practice. A petition has been launched, calling for the release of Adelir and for the Brazilian government to recognize the important role midwives play in promoting safe and natural childbirth. The petition has gained thousands of signatures and has caught the attention of international organizations such as the International Confederation of Midwives and the World Health Organization.
The support for midwives is not limited to Brazil. In countries like the United States and Canada, midwives have also faced challenges in their practice. In the US, midwives have been fighting for recognition and equal rights for decades. However, with the rise of the natural-birth movement, there has been a growing acceptance and demand for midwives. In Canada, midwives have been recognized as primary care providers since 1994, and their services are covered by the government’s healthcare system.
The persecution of midwives is not just limited to legal barriers. In many countries, midwives also face social stigma and discrimination. They are often seen as inferior to doctors and are not given the same respect and recognition for their skills and expertise. This not only affects the midwives but also the women who choose to give birth under their care. It is time to break this stigma and recognize the valuable contribution midwives make to maternal and infant health.
On this International Day of the Midwife, let us celebrate the tireless work of midwives around the world and stand in solidarity with those who are facing persecution. Let us also call on governments to recognize and support the important role midwives play in promoting safe and natural childbirth. Every woman has the right to choose how she wants to give birth, and midwives are there to support and empower them in their choices. It is time to give midwives the respect and recognition they deserve.
