Vancouver’s midwifery landscape is growing in prominence, offering families an alternative to conventional hospital-based maternity care. For the city’s Persian-speaking community, access to culturally sensitive midwifery services is helping bridge both language and healthcare gaps.

Zahra Khoddamy, a registered midwife with more than 14 years of experience, recently shared her insights on midwifery in British Columbia. Originally from Burnaby, Khoddamy transitioned from nursing in the Labour & Delivery unit at Lions Gate Hospital to midwifery in 2016. Her journey reflects a broader shift in the province, where midwifery is now recognized as a regulated, independent profession, governed by the College of Nurses and Midwives of BC.

“Midwifery in Canada is rooted in the belief that childbirth is a natural process,” Khoddamy explained. “Our role is to support and empower women, providing information and guidance so they can make informed decisions about their care.”

In BC, midwives provide a full continuum of care—prenatal, birth, and postpartum—often offering longer, personalized appointments that focus on education, emotional support, and cultural sensitivity. Families have access to home visits in the weeks following birth, ensuring guidance on breastfeeding, newborn care, and recovery.

Midwifery care is fully covered under the Medical Services Plan (MSP), removing financial barriers and making services accessible to all residents. Yet, awareness remains a challenge. Many expectant parents are unaware that midwife care does not require referrals and is available free of charge.

Demand for midwifery services is high. Approximately 30% of births in BC are attended by midwives, with many families registering as soon as pregnancy is confirmed. For Vancouver’s Persian-speaking community, midwives like Khoddamy provide an additional layer of accessibility, offering services in Farsi and helping families navigate the healthcare system.

Despite its benefits, the profession faces hurdles, including shortages of trained midwives and limited public awareness. Khoddamy emphasizes that rigorous training—UBC offers a four-year program—and strict regulatory oversight ensure high standards of care. She also calls for more recognition of experienced immigrant midwives to expand capacity and reach more families in need.

For newcomers and long-time residents alike, midwifery in Vancouver represents more than medical care; it’s a civic resource, empowering families with choice, knowledge, and culturally attuned support. As the city grows, the continued integration and visibility of midwives will play a key role in shaping equitable, family-centered maternity care.