BACKGROUND:
Midwives are essential frontline providers in improving maternal and neonatal health. However, their contributions to scientific literature remain limited, especially in low- and middle-income countries like Indonesia. This underrepresentation hinders the inclusion of practice-based evidence in health policy and global discourse. Identifying the barriers and enablers to midwives’ engagement in scientific writing is critical to fostering a more inclusive and practice-informed research landscape.

OBJECTIVES:
This study aimed to explore the current status, barriers, and institutional support needs related to scientific publication among Indonesian midwives, and to identify effective strategies that could enhance their engagement in scholarly writing.

METHODS:
A mixed-methods exploratory sequential design was employed. An online survey was completed by 30 licensed midwives across Indonesia from January 6–20, 2025. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze the data. In-depth interviews were conducted with 15 purposively selected midwives representing diverse regions and institutional roles. Thematic analysis was used to interpret qualitative findings.

RESULTS:
This mixed-methods study of Indonesian midwives revealed strong motivation to publish despite barriers. Midwives affiliated with academic institutions were significantly more likely to publish (p < 0.001). Major challenges included limited time (70.3%), low writing confidence (64.7%), and lack of institutional support. Participation in writing training (50%) was significantly linked to higher confidence (p = 0.037) and clearer publication plans (p = 0.027). Qualitative findings emphasized motivations such as professional development and maternal health advocacy, with peer collaboration (54%) and workshops (42%) as key strategies. Informal networks, including online mentorship, helped bridge institutional gaps.

CONCLUSIONS:
Midwives in Indonesia face significant institutional and individual barriers to scientific publishing but show high motivation to contribute. Strengthening supportive structures is essential to enable their participation in research dissemination.

KEY MESSAGE:
Targeted institutional support—such as time allocation, incentives, and mentorship—can empower midwives to contribute meaningfully to evidence-based maternal health policy and practice. Poster session 3 (Group B)