Sehloho Ntlhane, one of Lesotho's male midwives, checks a pregnant woman during a prenatal consultation at the Mpharane Health Center in Lesotho. This was reported by Qazaqyia.kz citing Associated Press.
Midwifery has traditionally been viewed as women's work in the country, but more men are joining the profession as Lesotho works to reduce maternal deaths.
Male midwife Sehloho Ntlhane leans over a pregnant patient while using a Pinard horn to listen to the baby's heartbeat during a prenatal examination at Mpharane Health Centre in Mohale's Hoek district, Lesotho, Friday, July 10, 2026. (AP Photo/Kayleen Morgan)
Male midwife Sehloho Ntlhane consults with expectant mother Bonolo Tebelo during a prenatal appointment at Mpharane Health Centre in Mohale's Hoek district, Lesotho, Friday, July 10, 2026. (AP Photo/Kayleen Morgan)
Male midwife Sehloho Ntlhane prepares for prenatal appointments at Mpharane Health Centre in Mohale's Hoek district, Lesotho, Friday, July 10, 2026. (AP Photo/Kayleen Morgan)
Expectant mothers Bonolo Tebelo, left, and Mpolokeng Mafereka wait for their appointments at Mpharane Health Centre in Mohale's Hoek district, Lesotho, Friday, July 10, 2026. (AP Photo/Kayleen Morgan)
Patients wait outside Mpharane Health Centre in Mohale's Hoek district, Lesotho, Friday, July 10, 2026. (AP Photo/Kayleen Morgan)
This change is a significant step in Lesotho's fight against high maternal mortality rates. The inclusion of male midwives helps improve access to healthcare services and women's health.