DESCRIPTION OF TOPIC:
This abstract focuses on Ethiopia’s experience in expanding access to comprehensive abortion care and contraception through midwife-led services. In response to the high rates of maternal mortality—33% of which were previously attributed to unsafe abortion—the country implemented legal reforms in 2005 to broaden access to safe abortion. Recognizing the shortage of physicians and healthcare disparities between urban and rural areas, Ethiopia adopted a task-shifting strategy that empowered midwives and nurses to deliver these services. This approach has had a transformative impact. Maternal mortality rates have declined significantly—from 676 to 267 deaths per 100,000 live births between 2006 and 2020—highlighting the value of decentralizing reproductive health services. Ipas Ethiopia, a key partner in this effort, has trained over 4,000 midwives in the past five years to deliver high-quality abortion and contraceptive care. As a result, nearly 284,000 women accessed abortion services, and more than 6 million received family planning services through midwife-led care in that timeframe.

RELEVANCE TO MIDWIFERY:
This abstract is directly relevant to midwifery as it demonstrates the pivotal role midwives play in reducing maternal mortality and promoting reproductive health equity. Midwives in Ethiopia have been central to delivering abortion and contraceptive care, especially in rural and underserved communities where physicians are scarce. By equipping midwives with the necessary training and authority, Ethiopia has successfully extended the reach of life-saving reproductive health services. This model showcases the scalability and effectiveness of integrating midwives into comprehensive reproductive healthcare. It also underscores midwives’ critical contribution to upholding women’s reproductive rights and achieving safe motherhood. As primary health providers on the front lines, midwives are not only improving access but also transforming outcomes in maternal health. Spanish - SRHR (including three-minute presentation competition)