Midwifery Leadership in Enhancing Maternal Mental Health Outcomes in Canada

The incomplete integration of mental health into midwifery practices in Canada affects mothers through conditions such as prenatal depression, anxiety, and postpartum post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), contributing to maternal morbidity and mortality. Despite their role as primary caregivers, midwives face critical gaps in mental health training, culturally sensitive care, and leadership, impacting the quality of care and health outcomes for mothers and infants. Addressing this issue is essential for fostering positive pregnancy outcomes, improving patient experiences, reducing health disparities, and ensuring equitable care. This study is a systematic review synthesizing findings from multiple studies through a structured literature search and data analysis using key databases including PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and One Search. Key themes uncovered were culturally sensitive care, social support, leadership competencies, and addressing barriers to care—all crucial for advancing maternal mental health interventions. These findings call for inclusive care promotion by midwifery leaders, stronger social support networks, and mental health screenings. Future research can include longitudinal cohort studies on standardized mental health interventions and qualitative interviews with midwives and mothers to explore leadership-driven care strategies and barriers.