The role of midwives in the medical world is as important as other health workers, because maternal health during pregnancy, childbirth and breastfeeding must be carefully monitored and managed. Not only support for physical health, but it is also a need to pay attention to mental support so that mothers remain calm and happy during pregnancy and exclusive breastfeeding. So what is the role of the midwife? Check out the full review.

The Role of Midwives for Pregnant Women¹

Midwives will provide most of the antenatal care. Pregnant women can also see a midwife even if the mother makes a check-up appointment with an obstetrician. Even pregnant women can plan a birth delivery with a midwife wherever the mother wants.

Midwives will usually:

> Check the baby's health, growth and position.

> Help pregnant women prepare for labor and delivery.

> Provide support and guidance.

> Counseling or referring for routine examinations to the hospital.

The role of the midwife during labor and birth delivery:²

> Provide information, encouragement, and emotional support.

> Monitor progress and suggest strategies for birth

> Monitor baby's heart rate and other signs.

> Offer pain relief or refer to an obstetrician.

> Provide other medical assistance if needed.

If the mother gives birth without complications in a public hospital or maternity hospital, the midwife can assist with labor and delivery of the baby. However, if there is any complication, the midwife will asking help from the obstetrician for birth delivery process.

Midwives also work in maternity hospitals or general hospitals that have obstetric polyclinics. They are in charge giving information to the obstetrician about the condition of your pregnancy and working closely with the obstetrician in the birth delivery process.

If the pregnant woman chooses to give birth at home, the midwife will arrange the labor and birth delivery process. They can also help call an ambulance to take the pregnant woman to the hospital if there is any complications arise that require medical intervention.

Postpartum Services and Baby Care¹

The midwife will care for the mother and baby after delivery. They will also check to see if the mother has lost too much blood or needs stitches. Postpartum care that midwives offered includes:

> Educate mothers on how to breastfeed and soothe the baby.

> Shows how to bathe a baby and change diapers.

> Provide pain relief if needed.

> Carry out some routine health tests, such as newborn screening.

After birth delivery, the midwife will usually visit the mother every day for the next few days. Some midwives will also be willing to provide advice and support over the phone during the first few weeks.

That is the role of the midwife for pregnant women that needs to be known. Do not hesitate to check your pregnancy or plan for birth delivery with a midwife. Make sure the mother always does routine pregnancy check up.

References:

Health Direct Australia. The Role of Your Pregnancy birth baby. Last review on January, 2021. Available at:

 https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/the-role-of-your-midwife

Fadhli Rizal Makarim. Kenali Peranan Bidan bagi Ibu Hamil. Halodoc. Last review on June 29, 2021. Available at:

https://www.halodoc.com/artikel/kenali-peranan-bidan-bagi-ibu-hamil