فهرست نشریات علمی دسترسی آزاد ایران

Background and Aim: In the process of medical modernization in Iran, the profession of midwifery-which was directly linked to women’s health and the government’s population policies-gradually came under state supervision and regulation. Following the enactment of the Medical Practice Law in 1911 and the establishment of institutions such as Dar al-Wiladah, Dar al-Ummahat and Dar al-Muallimat, midwives were required to complete formal training and obtain official licenses. This study examines the process and necessity of issuing midwifery licenses between 1851 and 1925 to demonstrate how governmental oversight and structured education contributed to the institutionalization of midwives within the healthcare system and the improvement of women’s health indicators. Methods: This study employs a descriptive-analytical methodology, consistent with the documentary nature of the research. Ethical Considerations: This research has observed all ethical requirements, including honesty, proper attribution and textual authenticity. Results: Previous studies have examined midwifery during the Qajar era, yet none have specifically addressed the licensing process and its historical development. In the late Qajar period, stagnant population growth and high infant/maternal mortality rates prompted a series of reforms to improve public health conditions. These included the enactment of the Medical Practice Act and the establishment of healthcare institutions with regulatory oversight. Within this framework, midwifery-as a profession directly tied to maternal and neonatal health-became subject to state supervision. Following competency assessments and standardized training, formal licenses were issued to qualified midwives. Conclusion: A review of these documents reveals that a consistent and regulated process existed for issuing licenses for midwifery, which played a significant role in establishing the professional status of midwives and reducing mortality rates.