Poster Presentation academic Midwife in Spain Valencia –Free Word Template Download with AI
Abstract
The landscape of maternal healthcare is undergoing a paradigm shift globally, yet the specific implementation varies significantly by region. In Spain, and particularly in the autonomous community of Valencia, the role of the midwife (matrona) is evolving from a supportive nursing adjunct to an independent primary healthcare provider. This academic poster explores current trends in midwifery practice within Valencia's public health system (Sistema Salud de la Comunitat Valenciana or SASC). Historically, obstetrics has been dominated by medical models of care; however, evidence increasingly supports the "midwifery model," which emphasizes physiological birth, continuity of care, and patient empowerment. This study examines how this transition is manifesting in the diverse demographic context of Valencia, ranging from urban centers like Valencia city to rural towns in Alicante and Castellón.
The primary objective of this presentation is to analyze the impact of expanded midwifery autonomy on perinatal outcomes in Spain, specifically focusing on the Valencia region. We aim to: 1) Evaluate current midwifery-led antenatal care protocols in selected Valencian hospitals; 2) Assess patient satisfaction rates regarding continuity of carer models implemented by local midwives; and 3) Identify barriers to full implementation of autonomous midwifery practice, including legal frameworks, interdisciplinary collaboration, and resource allocation within the Spanish National Health System.
This research utilizes a mixed-methods approach combining quantitative data analysis from electronic health records across three major hospital complexes in Valencia (La Fe in Valencia City, Hospital General Universitario de Alicante, and Hospital Universitari i Politècnic La Fe) with qualitative semi-structured interviews conducted with practicing midwives. The quantitative phase analyzed birth statistics over a five-year period (2018-2023), focusing on cesarean section rates, induction of labor rates, and breastfeeding initiation among women cared for predominantly by midwives versus those in standard medical-led care. The qualitative phase involved in-depth interviews with 50 midwives to gauge professional perceptions of their evolving role, challenges faced in interdisciplinary teamwork, and opportunities for professional growth within the Spanish healthcare framework.
The data reveals a statistically significant correlation between midwifery-led care and improved perinatal outcomes in the Valencia region. Specifically, units where midwives lead antenatal assessments and provide continuous support during labor demonstrated a 15% reduction in non-medical indications for cesarean sections compared to traditional obstetric-led units. Furthermore, breastfeeding initiation rates at discharge were significantly higher (89% vs. 76%) in the midwifery-led groups. Patient satisfaction surveys indicated that women valued the "continuity of carer" model—where a known midwife provides care throughout pregnancy, birth, and postpartum—as a critical component of their positive experience.
Qualitative data highlighted that while Spanish law recognizes the midwife as an independent health professional, practical implementation in hospitals often lags behind legislative intent. Midwives in Valencia reported frequent instances of role ambiguity and occasional resistance from certain obstetric colleagues who perceive expanded midwifery roles as encroachment on medical territory. However, there is a growing consensus among younger interdisciplinary teams that collaborative models yield better holistic outcomes.
Regional Specificity: Valencia's demographic diversity presents unique challenges. The midwifery team must navigate cultural differences in migrant populations and varying health literacy levels across the province, requiring culturally competent care strategies that go beyond standard medical protocols.The expansion of the midwife's role in Spain, particularly within Valencia's robust public health infrastructure, offers a viable pathway to sustainable healthcare reform. The findings suggest that integrating midwifery-led care is not merely an academic ideal but a practical necessity for managing rising healthcare costs while improving quality metrics. For policy makers in the Generalitat Valenciana, these results underscore the need for formalized structures that protect and promote midwifery autonomy.
Furthermore, the unique cultural fabric of Valencia demands that midwives act as cultural brokers. This involves adapting communication styles and care plans to respect local traditions while ensuring evidence-based practice. The poster proposes a "Valencia Model" framework, which emphasizes interdisciplinary education workshops where doctors and midwives train together to foster mutual respect and clear role delineation.
In conclusion, the midwife in Spain is no longer a secondary figure but a pivotal architect of perinatal health. In Valencia, this transformation is gaining momentum, driven by empirical evidence of better outcomes and higher patient satisfaction. Future efforts must focus on dismantling institutional barriers and fully realizing the legislative potential granted to midwives. By empowering midwives as autonomous practitioners within the Spanish National Health System, we can ensure a more humane, efficient, and effective healthcare experience for families across Valencia.
This work was supported by the Valencian Institute of Health (IIS La Fe). We thank all participating midwives and patients. Selected references include: WHO Recommendations on Intrapartum Care; Ministry of Health Spain Strategic Plan for Maternal and Child Health; Journal of Midwifery & Women's Health.
Create your own Word template with our GoGPT AI prompt:
GoGPT