Any midwifes or nurses about? Need advice please

KatieShopstoomuch

I'm sorry if this turns out a rather long post but i'm really at a loss and i've tried so many careers advisors, online websites etc. I know i'm the only person who can make the decision on what career i take but still would be nice to hear from anybody whos been in this line of work or has experience with it.

I've wanted to become a midwife or childrens nurse since i was about 18 i'm now 22 and my DD is fast aproaching 6 :shock:. I decided to take an admin course and just get qualifications to get me a basic 9-5 job as i thought becoming a midwife would be impossible, or at least one of the most non family friendly careers. However, i changed my mind again last year and i've hated what i'm studying it's just not me i really want to become a midwife i'm just at a loss i only have admin certificates which i can't see counting towards becoming a midwife, however i did study a social sciences certificate and then health and social care certificate last year. I'm considering enrolling in the access course now but i just keep wondering is it going to be a waste of time? :-| I know whilst training as a midwife and completeing the degree you would have to do nights, i think?

When you are a midwife is it compulsary to do night shifts? This is the only thing that gets me as, i know my family will help as best they can while i go to university (as they've offered) but there would be no way they could have DD nights etc after i'm qualified. I read somewhere that several times a month you MUST be on call, and this is just something i couldn't do but i really don't want to let it stop me getting the career i want. As i think it would be a fantastic career with lots of room to progress if i worked hard enough.

I just don't know what to do........Do i just get a basic job and try to get a mortgage and a comfortable life style, in a job i don't really want or spend the next 4/5 years getting a degree with the view of being in a career that could prove impossible to fit around my family commitments argggh


BIG STAR if you got this far lol xxxxxxxxxx

MrsMop

Hi Katie
A really good website for advice is https://www.studentmidwives.co.uk and check out the forums.
You would be expected to work nights, but it depends on the hospital you are placed at.
Good luck whatever you decide!

KatieShopstoomuch

Thanks for that i've just posted near enough the same message lol x

Marg

I no have nursing experience whatsoever but I say if it's your dream go for it!
I have friends who have done what you propose and got there in the end.

You will have moments when you wished you hadn't started the training but if it's what you really want you'll find a way though any difficulties and your family are willing to support you, so let them. You might get a job more like baby health visitor until DD is old enough to be left on her own @ night. Your domestic circs could be completely different by then anyway! Don't let domestics get in the way of your dream or you could end up bitter & resentful about missed opportunities.

studentmidwife

Hi Katie

As my user name suggests I am a 2nd year student midwife and also a mum of 2. It is very hard work but if its something you really want to do its worth it. As a student you need to be prepared to work all shifts including nights so you need to have really good childcare and family support. As a qualified midwife you would also be expected to work all shifts. Like I said it is hard work, especially working shifts and trying to keep on top of the academic work but if you are hard working and organised its possible. I am loving every minute of my training and all of the hard work will be worth when I'm qualified in (hopefully) about 18 months .

Let me know if you've got any questions and good luck with whatever you decide to do.