2nd Edition of the Public Health and Midwifery World Conference 2026

Abstract

The presentation topic that is dear to my heart is working with the Indigenous Midwives of Guatemala to provide a higher level of midwifery education through hands on learning to improve their practice and outcomes to help lower maternal and infant mortality rates.  Due to poverty, and lack of governmental support, there is little to no opportunity for continual skills education (such as we receive here in the USA, as midwives and RN’s, IBCLC’s) equipment, or even basic training for vital signs and monitoring fetal heart tones, and when to get a higher level of care prenatally for the safety of the mother and baby. 

I have been going down to Guatemala for the past 3 years and spending a few weeks each time in various locations throughout the county.  Through networking and word of mouth, I have been seeing the same midwives numerous times, so that they can have follow-up with what they have been learning.  My concentration has been with preventing, identifying and coping with Postpartum Haemorrhages, Pre-eclampsia, suturing and baby resuscitation.  Using power points I have made in Spanish, with many of them in these same midwives in the photos! And with hands on learning, it has been a joy and privilege to see these women gain more skills, have more confidence, and bring some of the education back to their villages.  Educational gatherings have been from as many as 28 (in 3 different languages besides Spanish) to 6 per class.  I teach in Spanish but have translators if they do not speak Spanish.  As Guatemala as 24 native Mayan Languages, many of the younger daughters can translate for their moms and older aunts, as many families pass midwifery tradition on to their daughters, as many say they receive a “calling” or vision to be a midwife. 

I normally fund raise so that I can go to Guatemala, travel within the country on the local buses, or have a friend drive me to various location spots to teach.  I stay with the midwives, or at birth centers, if they have one, and attend births if there are any between teaching.    My last trip I received a small grant from the Rotary Club of Porterville, and support from my church group.  This enables me to buy supplies for each of the class participants, buy lunch for them and help pay for their transport to the location, as many only make $40 per month on deliveries. 

I am hoping to continue this outreach, to improve outcomes and make a difference for midwifery, mamas and babies in our world in Latin America.