Midwifery Autonomy: Advancing Through Research

Midwives are skilled, independent professionals with a long-standing history of improving maternal and neonatal outcomes. Despite their critical role, midwifery often faces systemic barriers, including undervaluation and exclusion from decision-making processes. To overcome these challenges, midwives must lead research that reflects their priorities, ensuring care remains evidence-based and woman-centred. This research creates a ripple effect, shaping education, policy and practice while reinforcing midwifery’s autonomy and professional identity. Pursuing advanced education equips midwives to analyse, critique and apply evidence effectively, not just participating in the dialogue but creating the conversation that drives the future of maternal and neonatal care.