The actual document is the first of three steps, i) a literature study, ii) a questionnaire study and iii) selected case studies, in an effort by Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) to profile midwifery services and practices in the Americas. A variety of collaborating partners are involved, among these regional, national and local universities and nursing associations. The World Health Organization (WHO) has voiced concern about continued high maternal and perinatal mortality rates, which to a great extent is blamed on slow progress in introducing skilled attendants during pregnancy and childbirth. A five + five strategy, which focus on assisting the nations in providing skilled care to pregnant and women in labor, was launched in 2000. One of many efforts related to the strategy is a worldwide profiling of midwifery presently conducted by WHO in Geneva. (AU)