Romania's Midwife Crisis: A Doctor's Plea for Better Maternal Care

Romania Faces Midwife Shortage: Expert Highlights Importance of Maternal Care Romania is facing a critical shortage of midwives, impacting the quality of maternal care during childbirth. Dr. Bogdan Cioată, a medical specialist, recently highlighted the issue in a podcast interview, emphasizing the vital role midwives play beyond medical assistance. "La naștere, moașa nu e doar un ajutor. E sprijin emoțional, ghid, încurajare și expertiză," he stated, translating to, "In childbirth, the midwife is not just help. She is emotional support, guidance, encouragement, and expertise." Dr. Cioată points to the lack of midwifery schools in Romania as a major contributor to the shortage. He also notes that the existing midwives often have far more experience than doctors in the birthing process. While some smaller hospitals in Romania are successfully incorporating midwives into their maternity services, the overall shortage remains a significant concern for the country's healthcare system. The lack of midwives not only affects the physical well-being of mothers but also their emotional support during a critical and often vulnerable time. The solution requires increased investment in midwifery education and training programs to ensure adequate care for all mothers in Romania.