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05 May 2022
Today the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) celebrates the International Day of the Midwife and thanks midwives and acknowledges their long and significant history in supporting women’s health.
This year marks the 100th anniversary of the International Confederation of Midwives and we celebrate the day by reflecting on the profession’s long history and progress this century.
NMBA Board member Professor Catherine Chamberlain has been a midwife since 1995. As a Trawlwoolway woman who has travelled the world and supported women across the globe, she gives her special insight into the long historical and cultural significance behind midwifery.
‘It’s been a dream of mine since I was a teenager to be a nurse and a midwife, and to be able to travel the world, learning about birth from traditional midwives,’ Professor Chamberlain said.
‘Midwifery is really special to me, as I’ve grown older, I’ve learnt a lot more about my own culture and the important role that midwives have had for thousands of years all over the world.’
‘We do have one of the oldest professions in the world, helping women and supporting them through this critical time of life.’
‘Midwifery allows us to practice holistically, bringing together physical, social, emotional and cultural elements to our care. I would love to see midwives growing in confidence and reclaiming this important role that we have in providing that holistic expert care,’ said Professor Chamberlain.
NMBA Chair, Adjunct Professor Veronica Casey AM, also acknowledges the woman-centered care they have continued to provide throughout history.
‘This age-old profession is continuing to grow and strengthen, and we’re excited to see where it takes us in the future,’ Adjunct Professor Casey said.
‘On behalf of the Board, I’d like to acknowledge the incredibly hard-working midwives of Australia and thank them for their continued support of women’s health and wish them a happy International Day of the Midwife.’
Midwives are reminded they can access free, independent and anonymous health support anytime from Nurse & Midwife Support on 1800 667 877 or at www.nmsupport.org.au