Reflections of a midwife: Wendy Olayiwola

What does being a midwife mean to you? 

Being a midwife means having the privilege of walking alongside women and families at some of the most powerful and vulnerable moments of their lives. It is about providing skilled, compassionate, and respectful care, while advocating for women’s choices, autonomy, and safety. To me, midwifery is grounded not only in clinical excellence, but also in trust, continuity and equity, ensuring every woman feels seen, heard and valued. 

Can you share a moment or aspect of your role that makes you proud? 

What makes me most proud is seeing the impact of midwives when care is truly personalised and inclusive especially for women who have historically felt marginalised or unheard. Whether that’s a midwife taking extra time to explain options, adapting care to cultural needs or challenging practices that don’t serve women well, those moments remind me of the difference midwives make every day, often quietly and without recognition. 

How do the professional standards you work to influence the care you provide? 

Professional standards provide a vital framework that underpins safe, compassionate and accountable care. They guide us to practise with integrity, evidence and respect, while continually reflecting on our actions and learning from people’s experiences. For me, these standards also reinforce the importance of equality and fairness, reminding us that high-quality care must be inclusive and responsive to the diverse needs of the populations we serve. 

What message would you share with other midwives this International Day of the Midwife? 

My message to midwives is to recognise your value and the impact of your work. You are trusted voices, skilled professionals and powerful advocates for women and babies. Even on the hardest days, your care matters. Continue to support one another, speak up for what is right and hold onto the compassion and purpose that brought you into midwifery because you are making a difference every single day.

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