The Value of Emotional Intelligence in Midwifery: Enhancing Care and Outcomes for Mothers and Infants through Sustainable Development Goals and Leadership

Emotional Intelligence (EI), the ability to recognise, understand, and manage emotions in oneself and others, plays a crucial role in the field of midwifery. This article explores the value of EI in midwifery practice, highlighting its impact on maternal and infant outcomes, professional relationships, and job satisfaction among midwives. Through a comprehensive literature review and case studies, the article demonstrates how high levels of EI contribute to effective communication, empathy, and stress management, leading to improved care experiences for mothers and infants. The discussion includes practical strategies for developing EI skills among midwives and recommendations for integrating EI training into midwifery education and professional development programs. The article also connects the value of EI in midwifery to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), emphasising its importance in achieving gender equality, health, and well-being. Furthermore, the role of leadership in fostering a culture of EI within midwifery practice is examined. The findings underscore the importance of EI as a key competency in midwifery, essential for fostering a supportive and responsive care environment aligned with global development goals.