Midwifery Recap

Midwives work to bring new life into the world and play a vital role in every stage of pregnancy, labour and the early postnatal period. They provide full antenatal  care, including parenting classes, clinical examinations and screenings. Midwives will identify high-risk pregnancies, monitor pregnant people and provide essential support during labour and the birthing process.

To find out more about what being a paramedic involves and hear from students and professionals  - head over to our exploring vocations page

What do Midwives Do? Fact vs Fiction

Midwives play an essential role in some of the most significant moments in people's lives. For this reason, people have lots of different pre-imagined ideas about who midwives are and what they do. This is often informed by media portrayals - whether that's in TV dramas, films or on the news.

Have a go at sorting fact from fiction and test your knowledge on the role of midwives. 

Think Like a Midwife: Scenario Activity

Working as a midwife involves having to make a lot of important decisions on a daily basis and being a constructive part of your team. Could you think like a midwife? 

Try and identify the key words and themes in each scenario to start thinking like a midwife. Below, you can note down your thoughts and the actions that you would need to take in that scenario. 

Scenario 1

Scenario 2

Our Thoughts

How did your responses compare to our suggestions? Did you notice any other actions that could be taken? 

• Scenario 1:
  • Seeking an interpreter.
  • Admitting the patient to hospital to be assessed further.
  • Conducting a physical assessment (Blood pressure, Temperature etc)
  • Seeking online resources/support in different languages to get basic information until an interpreter can be allocated.
  • Checking maternity/Hospital record for more Information
  • Asking someone else to see to your other patients whilst you handle the situation 
• Scenario 2:
  • Be compassionate and listen intently
  • Signpost her to support groups, leaflets and/or websites 
  • Ask her about the family/friend support she has available 
  • Reassure her that she is doing well 
  • Check that the baby is well (feeding regularly, normal colour for ethnicity, normal temperature, passing urine, bowels open)
  • Weigh the baby
  • Contact GP/Health 
  • Contact mental health team if the situation continues