Use of the Midwifery Model of Care Among Midwives in the Specialist Hospital, Sokoto, Nigeria

Evidence from high-income countries shows that the midwifery model of care improves maternal and neonatal outcomes and is essential for achieving the Sustainable Development Goals of the United Nations. However, its implementation in low and medium incomecountries (LMICs) remains limited. This study assessed the use of the midwifery model of care among midwives at the Sokoto Specialist Hospital. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 60 midwives using a self-administered questionnaire, with data analyzed using SPSS version 26. The study found that 66.67% of the respondents had adequate knowledge of the midwifery model of care, while one-third exhibited knowledge gaps. Attitudes toward the model were generally positive, with strong support for minimal intervention, respect for women’s autonomy, and continuous support during labor with a cumulative mean (x̄ = 4.11). However, actual practice showed low adherence to the midwifery model, as all respondents routinely performed episiotomies, most augmented labor, and fewer applied comprehensive supportive roles. Utilization of the midwifery model was primarily constrained by health system, sociocultural, and political factors, including limited access, inadequate staffing, insufficient funding, and stakeholder resistance, rather than lack of knowledge or confidence among providers. Although most midwives demonstrated knowledge of the midwifery model of care and expressed positive attitudes toward its principles, the actual practice was low, with many continuing to apply aspects of the medical model. Hospital management should provide adequate facilities, ensure access to resources, and support continuous education through workshops, seminars, and conferences to strengthen the midwifery model of care