Midwives look after women during pregnancy, labour and birth. In this phase of life, women are very vulnerable and need help, guidance and knowledge. Environmental changes, insecurity, wars and flight have a lasting effect on the physical and mental health of women in this special phase.
Planetary health is a concept that describes the dependence of human health on the health of ecosystems. This also includes political, economic and social systems that influence the future of humanity and the Earth's natural systems.
At OTH Regensburg, students on the Master of Midwifery programme are introduced to the concept of planetary health. Migration is often an effect of climate and environmental change. What remains is uprootedness, homesickness, depression or fear. To better understand these aspects, you have to be close to the people affected.
By visiting the Regensburg Anchor Centre, the MSc midwifery students had the opportunity to come into direct contact with the work of the ‘one world midwives’. Midwifery work is complex and midwives are key figures when it comes to reproductive health, education, cultural understanding, violence prevention and sustainability.
