HSE highlights latest innovation and ideas in midwifery to help support mothers and babies across the country

Ahead of this year’s International Day of the Midwife (Sunday, 5 May) the HSE held its annual national conference in Portlaoise bringing midwives and student midwives together to learn about the latest work and innovations in midwifery across Ireland.

Key topics included how ‘human centred design’ could develop and improve the delivery of maternity services; the impact of climate change and how midwives can support sustainability and environmentally friendly practices at work; and the importance and value of sleep to our overall health and wellbeing.

Welcoming delegates, Bernard Gloster, HSE CEO, said: “In advance of International Day of the Midwife, I am delighted to be here to celebrate this important profession and to highlight the crucial contribution midwives and student midwives make to the provision of safe, high quality care to mothers and babies across the country.”

Speaking at the conference, Angela Dunne, National Lead Midwife in the HSE National Women and Infants Health Programme said: “I wish to acknowledge the compassion, commitment, professionalism and dedication shown by my colleagues, and midwives. Midwives have endured some incredible pressures, particularly over the last number of years. The passion they have for their jobs, and for the women and families they look after, is inspiring.”

National Lead for Midwifery in the Office of the HSE Nursing and Midwifery Service Director, Margaret Quigley, reflected:  “The conference seeks to highlight the important role of the midwife, promotion of the profession of midwifery as a career choice, and highlight the considerable progress within practice, education and research.  It provided an excellent platform for midwives and student midwives to network and celebrate with their peers. Happy International Day of the Midwife to all midwives and student midwives throughout the country and worldwide.”

International Day of the Midwife is an annual global event created in 1992 to honour the work of midwives around the world who help mothers give birth safely and provide essential care throughout pregnancy and childbirth. It is a great opportunity to show appreciation for midwives who provide invaluable support to families during this important life event.

Follow the conversation online @NWIHP @HSElive  @NurMidONMSD  #IDM2024 #IDM