International Midwives’ Day Date in the current year: May 5, 2024

Midwives are professionals in obstetrics (medical specialty that deals with pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum period). They provide care to women during pregnancy, childbirth and postnatal period. Historically midwives were women, hence the term. Nowadays men can be midwives as well, although male midwives are still comparatively rare.

The idea of founding a holiday that focuses on recognizing and honoring midwives was first voiced during the International Confederation of Midwives conference that was held in 1987 in the Netherlands. The first celebration was held on May 5, 1991.

The International Confederation of Midwives supports, represents and works to strengthen professional midwifery associations on a global basis. It currently represents association of midwives in about 100 countries.

International Midwives' Day activities are organized by health care groups, health care professionals, educators and individuals who want to promote midwifery care. They may include but are not limited to media campaigns, PCAs, gatherings, open houses etc.