The Role of Midwifery Workforce and Their Burnout in Hospitals of Saudi Arabia

Introduction: In recent years, burnout among midwives has surged due to increased work demands and a shortage of staff. This trend poses serious risks to maternal and infant health outcomes, potentially affecting mortality rates. Therefore, addressing midwife burnout is critical for maintaining quality maternal care services. This study was conducted to investigate the degree of burnout among midwives employed in Saudi Arabian hospitals, taking into account emotional tiredness, depersonalisation and decreased personal accomplishment. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at the second health cluster in Saudi Arabia using purposive sampling. An online survey with the Copenhagen Burnout Inventory (CBI) assessed burnout levels among 284 midwives. Results: The majority (99%) were Saudi nationals, mostly aged 26–35 years. About 41% worked evening shifts, and 37% were in inpatient departments. Overall, midwives experienced high burnout levels (mean score: 2.55 ± 0.955). Statistical analysis revealed significant correlations ( P < 0.05) between burnout levels, age and years of work experience. Conclusion: The findings of this study highlight a critical issue at the second health cluster, emphasising the need for targeted interventions. Addressing burnout factors and supporting midwives’ well-being are crucial to sustain high-quality maternal care delivery in the region.