Midwifery Schools: Training the Next Generation of Birth Attendants

Midwifery schools have been around for centuries, with the first recorded midwifery school established in 1751 in London. Today, there are over 100 accredited midwifery programs in the United States alone, with many more around the world. These programs provide students with the education and training needed to become certified midwives, who attend over 10% of births in the US. However, the path to becoming a midwife is not without its challenges, with many students facing high tuition costs, limited job opportunities, and restrictive state laws. Despite these obstacles, the demand for midwives is on the rise, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting a 12% increase in employment opportunities by 2028. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, midwifery schools are adapting to meet the changing needs of patients and the medical field, with a growing focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion.