The job market for midwives in the United States

There are currently an estimated 40,000 midwives in the United States. The midwife job market is expected to grow by 12.5% between 2016 and 2026.

How employable are midwives?

CareerExplorer rates midwives with a C employability rating, meaning this career should provide moderate employment opportunities for the foreseeable future. Over the next 10 years, it is expected the US will need 7,700 midwives. That number is based on 5,000 additional midwives, and the retirement of 2,700 existing midwives.

Are midwives in demand?

There is significant growth potential for the occupation of midwife. Increasingly, women are wanting natural child birth and seeking a partner in the birthing process. In addition, doctors’ offices, hospitals, and medical clinics are achieving cost-savings by hiring midwives to handle low-risk pregnancies and allowing OB-GYNs to concentrate on cases that require more extensive care. The demand for midwives is expected to continue to grow as these practitioners are seen to be responsible for reduced rates of Cesarean births, a major decrease in third-degree and fourth-degree perineal tears, higher rates of breastfeeding, reduced rates of labor augmentation and induction, and reduced use of regional anesthesia. Certified midwives will be especially needed in rural areas and inner cities, which are typically underserved.

What’s the supply of midwives?

The midwife industry is concentrated in California, Tennessee, Texas

Midwife job market by state