Since 2009, midwives in France have taken on new and expanded roles in healthcare, moving beyond traditional responsibilities related to childbirth. They now provide gynecological follow-up, prescribe contraceptives, and can even perform medical abortions. Despite these changes, the general public is largely unaware of these developments, with 87% of French women not knowing about the midwives' expanded roles. This shift was made possible by the HPST law (Hospital, Patients, Health and Territories), passed on July 21, 2009, which officially recognized midwives as capable of providing gynecological care for healthy women without the need for a doctor’s involvement. This legal change placed midwives at the center of a broader healthcare pathway, allowing them to conduct contraception consultations, perform full gynecological check-ups, and refer patients to doctors if any health issues are detected. More recently, a decree from March 2022 has allowed midwives to prescribe tests for sexually transmitted infections and to suggest initial treatments for both the patient and her partner. A bill introduced by deputy Stéphanie Rist also aims to give midwives the authority to prescribe work leave renewals, further expanding their responsibilities. In August 2023, another decree broadened their ability to administer vaccinations. These developments reflect a growing recognition of midwives' expertise and their role in providing accessible and comprehensive care. Midwives in France can now prescribe all forms of contraceptives, including to minors without requiring parental consent. Since 2016, they have also been authorized to perform medical abortions, a procedure that was previously only available to doctors. France currently has about 24,000 midwives, more than 97% of whom are women. Their range of responsibilities is considered the most extensive in Europe, reflecting both the trust placed in them and the evolving landscape of healthcare in the country. Despite these advancements, the lack of public awareness about the roles midwives play may affect access to care, particularly in regions where there are shortages of gynecologists and general practitioners. As midwives continue to take on more responsibilities, their expanded role could help alleviate the strain on the healthcare system and improve access to essential services for a wider population.