Midwife

Overview

Midwives work with women and their unborn babies, from pre-conception all the way through labour and birth and the post-natal period. They attend to the health and safety of mother and child, while also offering advice and support.

Work is within a hospital or clinic setting; some midwives are mobile and visit patients in their home.

Suits people with an interest in contributing to the wellbeing of others. The ability to remain calm in stressful situations is important.

Day-to-day

• offer advice to pregnant women on topics such as healthy eating, family planning and caring for the baby
• provide support from pre-conception through to the post-natal period
• regularly check the health of the woman and the baby, and inform the obstetrician or doctor of any issues
• run health education classes for mothers and babies
• help deliver the baby when the woman goes into labour and aid the woman to manage pain
• check on the health of the woman and baby after birth.

Considerations

• irregular hours
• requires driving
• shift work
• stressful.