The evolution of global midwifery education from ancient practices to modern standards.

  • Published In: British Journal of Midwifery, 2026, v. 34, n. 2. P. 102 1 of 3

  • Database: Academic Search Ultimate 2 of 3

  • Authored By: Asnawi, Damia Hazimah; Hashim, Sarena H; Abdul-Mumin, Khadizah H 3 of 3

Abstract

Midwifery began as community-based care and has since evolved into a structured and regulated profession. This article traces the evolution of midwifery education, illustrating how it has developed across global and local contexts. In many high-income countries, midwifery education has become standardised, ensuring midwives receive formal training and accreditation. However, disparities persist in low- and middle-income countries, where access to education, resources and professional recognition varies widely. Global organisations and national regulatory bodies have played a key role in shaping modern midwifery education, ensuring competency standards and professional accountability. Despite these advancements, midwives worldwide face workforce shortages, inconsistent regulations and barriers to full professional autonomy. Midwifery education must continue evolving by embracing new technologies, modernising curricula and advocating for stronger policies. By working towards global alignment in midwifery training and drawing lessons from Brunei Darussalam, all women can receive high-quality maternal and newborn care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Additional Information

  • Source:British Journal of Midwifery. 2026/02, Vol. 34, Issue 2, p102
  • Document Type:Article
  • Subject Area:History
  • Publication Date:2026
  • ISSN:0969-4900
  • DOI:10.12968/bjom.2025.0035
  • Accession Number:191175555
  • Copyright Statement:Copyright of British Journal of Midwifery is the property of Mark Allen Holdings Limited and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites without the copyright holder's express written permission. Additionally, content may not be used with any artificial intelligence tools or machine learning technologies. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Looking to go deeper into this topic? Look for more articles on EBSCOhost.