Traits of a Successful Midwife

Traits of a successful midwife should be highly educated medical professionals who support women as they get through the natural process of pregnancy and childbirth. We are not only educated to prioritize the well-being of the mother and the babies, but we are also there to give them emotional support and assurance that giving birth is normal and has nothing to be afraid of. Midwives also help women to make their own decisions about the care and services they can access and will provide them health education and parenting advice.

Aside from going through a tough time in becoming a midwife, you also need to possess skills that are really essential in your field. Skills like counselling, listening and general communication skills are important. Many mothers, especially new ones, will need advice and support. You have to be aware of the social and cultural context in which childbirth takes place.

There are many personal qualities and skills needed to be a midwife, including:

• an understanding and caring attitude
• an ability to get on well with people from a wide range of backgrounds
• emotional and mental strength
• good observation
• an ability to act on own initiative
• patience
• maturity
• willingness to take responsibility
• an ability to cope with distressing circumstances and to remain calm in stressful situations

Additionally, consider these 5 qualities that you need to manifest as a midwife:

1. Strong Interpersonal Skills

To have a strong interpersonal skills means being able to work well with many types of people. It also means having the ability to interact and communicate with people in different situations. Being able to work effectively with people at different levels in different capacities is an essential part of the job. While you do not have to love everyone you meet, you must be non-judgmental, so you can provide appropriate care in a professional manner.

2. Ability to stay calm in any situation

Being able to stay calm in any circumstances is a primary skill that a healthcare professional needs. As a midwife which is also a medical professional, you will encounter challenges that will trigger pressure and anxiety. Learn to trust yourself and your ability to solve any problem that may appear because you have the proper training, education and experience to be there, your patients and clients trust you more than anyone in that field.

3. Be a good listener

Good listening skill is an essential part of your communication skills. Take note that your communication skills is the most important life skill that you can have. Listening skills allow one to make sense of understanding to what another person is saying (because not all the time you are the only person talking). Listening to your patients will help you understand their needs, not just only by observing them and making a conclusion. Sometimes by having a very good communication, you end up building a good relationship with your clients while gaining their trusts. It’s always the communication that matters.

4. Be an Educator

As a midwife, you also need to educate your patients and clients. To possess and manifest qualities of a good educator is very important. Have enough patience to convey the information that they need to know and understand. Also, take note that as an educator, you have to fully understand their needs so you can provide them the care services that they should receive from you.

5. Responsible

When you decide to accept a patient, you guaranteed to be responsible for their wellness especially during pregnancy. As a midwife, you should be responsible in any aspects. You cannot just leave your patient behind just because you have a scheduled vacation or trip or any celebration. If the appointment is unavoidable, learn to look for someone who can be a substitute if you are not around. Always prioritize your patient’s wellbeing.

These are just few traits that you need to acquire. Not because you are already a registered practitioner, doesn’t mean that you don’t need to learn any other qualities outside your specific scope of practice. As they always say “Learning is a Lifelong Process”, so take this opportunity to learn, you still have a long way to go!

Midwifery Scope and Standards is a great introductory course into midwifery and birth centers for anyone wanting to learn more about this amazing profession!