Models for Providing Midwifery Care and its Challenges in the Context of Iran

Abstract   Introduction: Looking at the role of midwives and the need to invest in this profession in order to achieve development objectives. Objective: The aim of this study is to review the characteristics of midwifery care presentation models in the world as well as in Iran and investigate its challenges in the country. Materials and Methods: This study is a review done in 2016. First, all papers published in Persian and English until 2016 were searched in online databases. Overall, 20 English papers, one Persian paper, and several related websites were used for accurate explanation, interpretation, and search of every care model. During investigation of papers, emphasis had been placed on introduction, results, and discussion of the characteristics of midwifery care models. The challenges relating to the design and application of these care models in Iran have been discussed and some solutions have been offered. Results: Although there are various definitions about Models of midwifery care, the boundary between midwifery care models and care models in which midwives are present is clear. Today, midwifery care is going through a transformation and redefinition process there has been changes in response to women’s needs to help the development of the midwifery profession. Midwifery-led care models have various advantages for mothers and babies; they bring about a high level of satisfaction among pregnant women, reduction of undesirable outcome for mothers and babies, and empowerment of women. Conclusion: The prerequisite for promotion of mothers and babies’ health is giving women the rights to informed choose for choice of child birth and delivery methods. So, design and implementation of midwifery care models must correspond with the culture, beliefs, and knowledge native to each region and with constant protection of security and cultural safety of mothers during childbirth.