International connections among midwives.

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Women's Health
• Maternal Health

Background:

• Adverse social, cultural, and economic factors significantly impact women's health globally.
• Developing nations, particularly in Africa, bear the highest burden of maternal mortality and disability.
• Low status, literacy, poor nutrition, and environmental toxins contribute to poor health outcomes for women.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the global challenges affecting women's health and maternal outcomes.
• To underscore the commitment of nursing and midwifery organizations to improving maternal and women's health.
• To advocate for women's human rights in the context of reproductive and maternal healthcare.

Main Methods:

• Review of global health disparities affecting women.
• Analysis of the role of social, cultural, and economic factors in maternal health.
• Examination of the contributions of nursing and midwifery organizations.

Main Results:

• Maternal deaths and disability are concentrated in developing countries.
• Social determinants of health are critical factors in women's health outcomes.
• Organizations like the International Confederation of Midwives and American College of Nurse-Midwives have a long-standing commitment to improving maternal care.

Conclusions:

• Addressing social and economic inequalities is crucial for improving global women's health.
• Nurses and midwives play a vital role in promoting safe pregnancies and advocating for women's rights.
• A universal vision of women's human rights should guide global maternal health initiatives.