Training and Qualifications
There is only one route to becoming a midwife in Gt. Britain. I
originally trained in a hospital in Ipswich, Suffolk in England. England
is known as "The home of modern midwifery care" There, midwifery care
was normal for everyone, doctors only became involved if there were
complications. These were identified by the midwives and referral
organized by them. Care was then determined between the doctor and the
midwife and the care was carried out by the midwife. I commenced my
training in 1991.
During my training, I was primary midwife (under supervision) for 40
normal labors and deliveries, 40 cases where the mother and/or baby was
considered high risk, (these cases consisted of, among other
complications, twin births, breech births and vaginal births after
C-sections),100 pre-natal mothers, 100 post partum mothers and babies.
I was trained:
- in drug administration. Although this is not used here, I am still able
to administer emergency drugs and oxygen.
- in phlebotomy (the drawing of blood)
- in waterbirth protocols and techniques.
- in neonatal care inluding working for 6 months in neonatal intensive care as part of the normal
working contract.
- in pre-natal assessment
- cessation of smoking techniques
- counselling
- relaxation techniques.
My qualification was bestowed on me by the University of East Anglia.
Since completing my formal training I have:
- been required to assist in the training of:
- nursing students,
- direct entry
midwifery students,
- medical students and
- doctors converting to obstetrics
and pediatrics in a hospital environment.
- trained in the use of aromatherapy during pregnancy and labor.
- Certification of Graduation from the Family Birth Services Midwifery
Course.
- Documentation from the Texas Department of Health as a Midwife.
- the American certification in CPR.
- the American certification in Neonatal Resuscitation.
- Certification as a breast feeding educator.
- attended many courses;
- ultra sound screening,
- waterbirth,
- nutrition and
it's effects on the mind and mood,
- breast feeding,
- physical assessment,
- child abuse,
- counseling, and many other related topics.