Midwifery Regulation Glossary of Terms

Regulation

ICM

Last Edited 12 December 2025 11:37 CET

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Strong midwifery regulation is essential to ensure professional competence, public safety, and high-quality care. ICM’s regulation resources support countries and regulators to develop, implement, and strengthen effective regulatory systems.

The Regulation Glossary provides clear definitions of key terms used in midwifery regulation, based on standard ICM terminology, to support a shared understanding among regulators, policymakers, educators, and professional associations.

Related Resources

Core Document, Standards

Global Standards for Midwifery Regulation

The goal of these standards is to promote regulatory mechanisms that protect the public by ensuring that safe and competent midwives provide high standards of midwifery care.

Guide

Global Standards for Midwifery Regulation – Companion Guide

This companion guide is intended to be used alongside these Global Standards and additional regulation resources, which support implementation and can be found on the ICM website. Section one outlines what is effective midwifery regulation. Section two provides additional guidance on each standard and suggestions as to how a regulatory authority can evidence that a standard is being met or guide amendments so that standards are met.

Midwives are working in the female ward of Keraniganj Upazila Health Complex, Bangladesh. They provide essential care and support to pregnant women before, during and after childbirth. Their role involves monitoring the progress of labour, offering guidance, and facilitating a safe and positive birthing experience. Keranigonj, Bangladesh

Position Statement

Midwifery Regulation and Collaboration with Women

We advocate for the inclusion of service users in the regulation of midwifery to ensure that policies protect their interests and promote a collaborative regulatory environment that meets their needs.