On April 7, 2025, the global community came together to observe World Health Day, with the World Health Organization (WHO) unveiling this year’s theme: “Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures”. This theme underscores the critical importance of maternal and newborn health, aiming to end preventable maternal mortality and enhance the well-being of mothers and their infants.
In alignment with this focus, WHO released a compelling video highlighting the role of male midwives in maternal care. The video features Fatumanavaoupolu Tuiuli Tagaloa from Samoa, a male midwife and principal nurse at Lufilufi Health Centre, who has been instrumental in providing care to mothers and babies. His journey, supported by the WHO Fellowships Programme, exemplifies the evolving dynamics in healthcare professions and challenges traditional gender roles in midwifery.
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India, with its diverse healthcare landscape, has been making strides in maternal and child health. Initiatives like Ayushman Bharat and the National Health Mission have significantly contributed to improving healthcare access and outcomes for mothers and newborns across the nation . These programs emphasize the importance of skilled healthcare professionals, irrespective of gender, in delivering quality maternal care.​
The inclusion of male midwives in the healthcare system is gradually gaining acceptance in India. While the profession has traditionally been female-dominated, pioneers like Tagaloa serve as inspirations, demonstrating that compassionate care transcends gender boundaries. Educational institutions and healthcare organizations are now recognizing the value of diversity in midwifery, encouraging more men to join the field and contribute to maternal and newborn health.​
World Health Day 2025 serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to ensure “Healthy Beginnings” for all, paving the way for “Hopeful Futures.” As World continues to advance its healthcare initiatives, embracing inclusivity and challenging traditional norms will be pivotal in achieving holistic health outcomes for every mother and child.
Credits: WHO
