CAREERS ENCYCLOPEDIA

Midwife

Trained healthcare professional who offers prenatal (before birth), delivery, and postnatal care to pregnant women, ensuring a safe childbirth experience and promoting the health of both mother and baby.

Career Cluster Tag:
On The Job You Would:

Assists with labor and delivery, monitors the health of both mother and baby, provide emotional support, offer guidance on breastfeeding, handle complications, and work with obstetricians as needed.

Knowledge
Pregnancy, childbirth, postnatal care, including the management of normal and complicated deliveries, maternal and infant health practices.
Skills
Clinical Skills:

Proficiency in managing labor and delivery to ensure the safety of both mother and baby.

Communication Skills:

Clear guidance and support to expectant mothers and their families throughout the childbirth process.

Problem-Solving Skills:

Identify and address complications during pregnancy and delivery, coordinating with other healthcare professionals as needed.

Abilities
Attention to Detail:

Closely observe and accurately monitor maternal and fetal health indicators during labor and delivery.

Critical Thinking:

Quickly assess complex situations, make informed decisions, and implement effective interventions during emergency scenarios.

Manual Dexterity:

Performing hands-on tasks such as assisting with deliveries and conducting physical assessments with precision.

Personality
Empathy:

Understand and provide emotional support to expectant mothers throughout the childbirth process.

Patience:

Remain calm, composed during long or challenging labor and delivery situations.

Reliability:

Dependability in performing critical tasks accurately and consistently to ensure the safety of both mother and baby.

Technology
Fetal monitoring systems like the Philips Avalon to track fetal heart rates, ultrasound machines for assessing pregnancy progress and electronic medical record systems to document patient information.
Entry Requirements
Diploma or bachelor’s degree, practical training and certification from a recognized institute.
Job Outlook
Increasing Demand:

Growing awareness of maternal health and rising birth rates are driving a higher need for skilled midwives in healthcare facilities.

Expanding Opportunities:

As new maternity hospitals and clinics are opening, creating more job opportunities in this field.

Government and NGO Support:

Initiatives focused on improving maternal and child health are likely to boost job prospects.

Where can you work?
In hospitals, maternity clinics, community health centers, private practices, and government health programs.
Education
Diploma in Midwifery:

Complete a specialized diploma program to gain foundational knowledge.

Bachelor’s Degree:

Pursue a bachelor’s degree in midwifery or nursing to achieve advanced training and broader understanding.

Clinical Training and Certification:

Undergo hands-on clinical training and obtain certification from the Pakistan Nursing Council (PNC) to become a licensed and practicing midwife.

Where can you study?
Allama Iqbal Medical College (Lahore):

Offers a comprehensive nursing and midwifery program with extensive clinical training and theoretical education.

Fatima Jinnah Medical University (Islamabad):

Provides a bachelor’s degree in midwifery and nursing, focusing on advanced maternal and child health care.

Aga Khan University (Karachi):

Features specialized programs in midwifery within its School of Nursing and Midwifery, emphasizing both clinical skills and research.

Expenses & Scholarships
Costs ranges between PKR 80,000 and 250,000 per year approximately, depending on the institution. Scholarships and financial aid are available from various universities and government programs to help reduce these expenses.

Similar Occupations: