Midwife who helped bring 10,000 babies into the world
For 36 years, Maia Oglinda has been by mothers' sides during the most important moments of their lives. As a midwife, she has helped deliver over 10,000 babies. She is the first to hold each baby in her arms, cut the umbilical cord, and place the infant on the mother's chest.
Maia Oglinda assists in the delivery of 7 to 8 babies in a single day. The most births she has managed in one shift is 14, which means almost one baby is born every hour. Despite the demanding nature of her work, she feels a deep sense of gratitude with every look from mothers holding their newborns for the first time.
"In moments like these, I find my energy again in my love for the profession. I believe the patients who come to give birth feel this connection as well. You can't help but smile at them and support them on this important journey," says Maia Oglinda, reflecting on International Day of Midwives.
Midwives have a crucial responsibility: they guide mothers on how to breathe during labor and monitor for any changes in the pregnancy.
"This job has taught me the true meanings of patience, responsibility, and paying attention to every detail. The midwife is the one who first holds the baby and feels its first breath," Maia Oglinda adds.
Since her first day of work, Maia Oglinda has adopted a rule: to smile as broadly as possible at mothers to help instill confidence in them. This simple act significantly encourages and supports them. One of the most unforgettable moments in her career was the birth of triplets, three brothers born naturally. She recalls that day as being filled with intense emotion, which is difficult to put into words.
“After a year, my mother surprised us by bringing the boys to visit. She continued to visit periodically, sharing in the joy of watching them grow big and healthy. Each time we saw them, we relived those moments in the delivery room. It was as if time turned back for a moment, bringing that special day back to life in our hearts,” Maia recalls.
The International Day of the Midwife is celebrated every year on May 5, starting from 1992, to acknowledge the crucial role midwives play in the healthcare system, particularly in supporting maternal and neonatal health. This observance was initiated by the International Confederation of Midwives and highlights the importance of skilled birth assistance, as well as the dedication, responsibility, and positive impact midwives have on people's lives.
