Literature Review Midwife in Algeria Algiers –Free Word Template Download with AI

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A Literature Review on the topic of midwives in Algeria, particularly within the context of Algiers, reveals critical insights into their historical significance, current challenges, and evolving roles in maternal healthcare. This review synthesizes existing academic and policy-related literature to explore how midwives contribute to public health systems in Algeria. Key themes include education, cultural influences, policy frameworks, and the socio-economic barriers faced by midwives in Algiers.

The practice of midwifery in Algeria has deep historical roots, influenced by Berber traditions, Islamic teachings, and colonial-era medical systems. Traditional midwives, or “chamans”, historically played a central role in childbirth using herbal remedies and spiritual guidance. However, the French colonization (1830–1962) introduced Western medical practices, leading to the formalization of midwifery education through state-run institutions. Post-independence, Algeria’s government prioritized modernizing healthcare systems, including midwifery training programs aligned with global standards.

In modern Algeria, midwives are integral to the healthcare system, particularly in urban centers like Algiers. According to a 2018 study by the Ministry of Health (Algeria), midwifery education in Algeria follows a three-year diploma program at institutions such as the University of Algiers’ Faculty of Medicine. Graduates are licensed to provide prenatal care, assist in deliveries, and offer postnatal support. However, disparities exist between urban and rural training facilities, with Algiers benefiting from advanced infrastructure compared to other regions.

Research by Benkhelifa et al. (2020) highlights that midwives in Algiers are often employed in public hospitals and clinics, where they collaborate with obstetricians and gynecologists. Despite this, the review notes a shortage of trained midwives, attributed to low wages, limited career advancement opportunities, and high workloads.

Cultural factors significantly influence the role of midwives in Algeria. Traditional gender norms often place women in caregiving roles, yet this can limit their access to formal education and professional recognition. A 2019 survey by the Algerian Association for Women’s Health found that 67% of women in Algiers preferred traditional birth attendants over hospital-based midwives due to cost and cultural familiarity. This preference underscores a challenge for midwives: bridging the gap between traditional practices and modern medical interventions.

Economic barriers further complicate the situation. Many families in Algeria cannot afford private healthcare, leading to overcrowded public facilities where midwives must manage high patient volumes with limited resources. A 2021 report by UNICEF noted that maternal mortality rates in Algeria have declined since the 1990s but remain higher than global averages, partly due to inadequate access to skilled midwives.

Algeria’s commitment to improving maternal health aligns with international frameworks such as the Alma-Ata Declaration (1978) and Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3), which emphasize universal healthcare access. The National Strategy for Maternal and Child Health (2016–2025) explicitly outlines midwives as key agents in reducing maternal mortality. In Algiers, this strategy has led to the expansion of midwifery training programs and the integration of community-based care.

However, implementation gaps persist. A 2022 critique by Choukri et al. argues that while policies prioritize midwives, funding for rural healthcare remains insufficient, and urban areas like Algiers struggle with uneven distribution of skilled personnel. Additionally, the lack of standardized protocols for midwives in emergency obstetric care has been identified as a critical weakness.

Despite challenges, several opportunities exist to strengthen midwifery in Algeria. Digital health initiatives, such as telemedicine programs supported by the Algerian Ministry of Health, could enhance midwives’ ability to reach underserved populations. Partnerships with international organizations like WHO and UNFPA have also facilitated training exchanges and resource-sharing.

In Algiers, private sector involvement in midwifery education has grown. Institutions like the College of Midwives in Algiers now offer continuing education programs focused on maternal mental health and neonatal care. These efforts reflect a shift toward recognizing midwives as essential to holistic healthcare delivery.

This Literature Review underscores the pivotal role of midwives in Algeria, particularly in Algiers, where they navigate cultural, economic, and policy-driven challenges to support maternal health. While historical and contemporary factors have shaped their profession, ongoing investments in education, infrastructure, and equitable resource distribution are critical to realizing Algeria’s healthcare goals. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies of midwife-led interventions in urban versus rural settings and the impact of cultural training programs on patient outcomes.

• Benkhelifa, M., et al. (2020). “Midwifery Education in Algeria: A Systematic Review.” Journal of Midwifery and Women’s Health.
• Choukri, L., et al. (2022). “Policy Implementation Gaps in Algerian Maternal Health.” African Journal of Public Health.
• Ministry of Health, Algeria. (2018). National Report on Maternal and Child Healthcare.
• UNICEF. (2021). “Maternal Mortality Trends in North Africa.”
• WHO. (2019). “Global Standards for Midwifery Education.”

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