Born on May 5
International Day of the Midwife
Thank the first hands that held us.
Next: May 5, 2027
Where it comes from
The International Day of the Midwife is led by the International Confederation of Midwives (ICM), which brings together midwives' associations from around the world. The idea of a day for midwives was discussed at ICM congresses in the 1980s and agreed at the congress in Kobe, Japan, in 1990.
How it's celebrated
Midwives' associations, hospitals and midwifery schools hold talks, gatherings and campaigns, and ICM sets a call to action for the profession each year. Families often use the day to thank the midwife who helped bring a child into the world. A card or a short note to a midwife you remember is a simple way to join in.
Did you know
New Zealand's midwives were marking a midwives' day as early as 1987, before it became an international day.
Read the full story of International Day of the Midwife
Star sign
Taurus · April 20 – May 20 · Earth sign
Steady and loyal, with a weakness for good food and comfortable things.