Texas Midwife Shortage: 50.01 Births Per Midwife, is Sixth-Worst in the U.S

A new study by Birth Injury Lawyers Group reveals Texas has the sixth-highest midwife shortage among the U.S. states.

The research analyzed monthly birth data from January to May 2023, sourced from the National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) and the National Vital Statistics System, alongside the number of certified midwives in each state as of May 2023, provided by the American Midwifery Certification Board. 

The average monthly births for each state were calculated and compared to the number of midwives, revealing the births-to-midwife ratio for each state and identifying those facing the most significant shortages.

Texas is grappling with the sixth-highest midwife shortage nationwide, reflected in its 50.01 to 1 monthly average births-to-midwife ratio. This is 104% above the national average of 24.5. Every month, the Lone Star State welcomes approximately 30,658 newborns, but with only 613 certified midwives available, providing adequate maternal care poses a significant challenge.

Top 10 U.S. states with the highest births-to-midwife ratio:

1. Mississippi – 78.66 to 1

2. Alabama – 73.99 to 1

3. Arkansas – 57.33 to 1

4. Louisiana – 52.96 to 1

5. Oklahoma – 52.16 to 1

6. Texas – 50.01 to 1

7. Nevada – 39.25 to 1

8. Missouri – 39.18 to 1

9. North Dakota – 38.07 to 1

10. Nebraska – 36.49 to 1

Looking at the study, a spokesperson from Birth Injury Lawyer commented, 

Texas’ high births-to-midwife ratio puts expectant mothers at risk, as there aren’t enough midwives to provide essential care during pregnancy and childbirth. As a result, complications like delayed interventions or inadequate monitoring can increase, affecting both maternal and neonatal health.

To tackle this issue, Texas needs more trained midwives. Offering incentives like scholarships, loan forgiveness, and competitive salaries could attract people to the profession. Increasing access to midwifery education and promoting diversity in the field would help ensure all mothers receive the quality care they deserve.”

Table of Extended Results:

The study was conducted by Birth Injury Lawyers Group, a nationwide group of lawyers that specializes in advocating for families whose children have suffered injuries at birth due to medical malpractice or errors.