DESCRIPTION OF TOPIC:
In Quebec, Canada, midwives provide comprehensive care throughout pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period. Recently, their scope of practice has begun to expand to include abortion care as part of primary health services. Although abortion is legal and supported by legislation in Canada and Quebec, timely access remains a challenge in many regions. Given their accessibility and community-based approach, midwives are well-positioned to improve access to abortion services. The professional association of midwives in Quebec received funding from the Canadian Association of Midwives (CAM) and Health Canada to support the development of midwifery-led abortion care. This initiative aims to increase access to safe and timely abortion, especially for people facing barriers due to geography, systemic inequities, or social stigma. As project leader, I collaborate with a small working group to create resources, tools, and advocacy strategies that help midwives understand, prepare for, and integrate abortion care into their practice. We work in partnership with social justice and reproductive rights organizations, and we supported the provincial college of midwives to dismantle regulatory and cultural barriers. Our team has developed clinical guidelines and tools tailored to midwifery practice. We also emphasize reproductive justice and cultural safety, centering inclusive and person-centered care that respects the diverse experiences and identities of those seeking abortion care. Through close collaboration with key partners, the professional association developed an effective strategy to support midwives in integrating abortion care into their practice, feeling strong and ready to offer this, and thus contributing to improved access within their communities.

RELEVANCE TO MIDWIFERY:
Providing comprehensive, normal, primary care in sexual and reproductive health is a goal for many midwives. By their community-based practice and their accessibility, midwives can contribute to safe and timely abortion care and break down the barriers that individuals can face. An effective and concerted strategy is important to support midwives. Woman-centered 2 (including three-minute presentation competition)