The midwifery profession in France
In France, the midwifery profession is a medical profession. There are currently 23 000 midwives registered in France, more than 20 000 are in practice.
Midwifery studies in France
The studies last 5 years: 4 years in midwifery schools after a first year of medical university studies common with Medicine and Odontology.
>> The list of midwifery schools can be found here
Types of practice
The vast majority of midwives practice as employee.
- 80 % in public or private healthcare establishments
- 3% in public administrations at regional level
A large scope of competence
Midwives have the mission to assist women through childbirth. Their main competences are:
- Monitoring of the pregnancy, prenatal care
- Prescription rights (incl. contraceptives)
- Gynecological follow up of healthy women
The midwife's system of reference for profession and skills provides you with a complete overview of our missions and competencies.