International Day of the Midwife: Focusing on the health of First Nations mothers and babies – FNHA
May 01, 2025
International Day of the Midwife, May 5, is a time to celebrate the contributions of midwives to improving maternal and newborn health. The wellness of mothers and babies is foundational in creating healthy futures for the next generation.
As health and wellness partners to First Nations people in British Columbia (BC), the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) prioritizes our work to ensure First Nations women and families receive culturally safe and high-quality care that supports them physically and emotionally – before, during, and after birth.
This is especially relevant for First Nations Lifegivers living in rural and remote communities, who face numerous barriers in accessing health care – barriers that cause financial and emotional strain for families.
Many First Nations Lifegivers, such as Janelle Tom (Sḵwx̱wú7mesh Úxwumixw | Syilx), have talked about the importance of having a doula or midwife from their own community, one who understands their traditions and ceremony.
