Evaluating the efficacy of midwifery led-care unit for optimizing maternal and infant health outcomes in India: an evidence based systematic review

Authors

  • Deepika Sethi Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecological Nursing, Gandhi Memorial National College of Nursing Ambala, Ambala Cantt, Haryana, India
  • Shaini P. C. Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecological Nursing, College of Nursing, LLRM Medical College, Meerut, UP, India
  • Hem Kumari Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecological Nursing, Sarvodaya Nursing Institute, Faridabad, Haryana, India
  • Mohammed Umar Department of Nursing, Uttar Pradesh University of Medical Sciences, Saifai, Etawah, UP, India
  • Karthika S. Department of Community Health Nursing, Parul Institute of Nursing and Research, Vadodara, Gujarat, India
  • Deepa N. R. Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecological Nursing, ESIC College of Nursing, Kalaburagi, Karnataka, India
  • Suhashini Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecological Nursing, H.K.E.S College of Nursing, Kalaburagi, Karnataka, India
  • Tanu Priya Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecological Nursing, Capital Academy of Nursing, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18203/2320-1770.ijrcog20250877

Keywords:

Efficacy, Midwifery led-care unit, Optimizing maternal outcome, Infant health outcomes, Evidence based

Abstract

The establishment of midwife-led care units (MLCUs), a model in which midwives play pivotal roles in optimizing maternal and neonatal outcomes with minimal interventions, has shown promise in elevating care quality and enhancing childbirth experiences. This article examines the requisite investments for incorporating MLCUs into the public health framework by analysing their merits, contemporary maternal mortality trends, midwives' functions, pertinent contextual factors, and recent innovations in Indian midwifery practices. The midwifery-led care approach is underpinned by the philosophy that views pregnancy and childbirth as natural physiological processes. Employing midwives, especially in low-risk pregnancies, offers both adequate and economically viable care. India's government has commenced the integration of midwifery services nationwide to enhance care quality, equity, and efficiency, while reducing the strain on tertiary healthcare facilities. The World Health Organization's designation of 2020 as the "Year of the Nurse and Midwife" underscored the critical role that these professionals play in maintaining high-quality healthcare. Moreover, garnering support from both medical practitioners and the general public is essential for successful future development and implementation of MLCUs across India.

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References

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Published

2025-03-27

How to Cite

Sethi, D., P. C., S., Kumari, H., Umar, M., S., K., N. R., D., Suhashini, & Priya, T. (2025). Evaluating the efficacy of midwifery led-care unit for optimizing maternal and infant health outcomes in India: an evidence based systematic review. International Journal of Reproduction, Contraception, Obstetrics and Gynecology, 14(4), 1292–1300. https://doi.org/10.18203/2320-1770.ijrcog20250877

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Section

Systematic Reviews