Registered Midwife: Key Skills, Qualifications and Career Path
Learn about the key skills, qualifications, and career path for a Registered Midwife
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Practice Now »What is a Registered Midwife?
A Registered Midwife is a healthcare professional who has gained qualifications to independently guide and care for expectant mothers, newborns and their families. They are responsible for providing expert advice, conducting regular health checks, assisting during labor and delivery, as well as offering support and education in the postnatal period.
Skills
- Expertise in providing antenatal and postnatal care to expectant mothers
- Proficiency in conducting routine examinations and assessments during pregnancy
- Ability to assist in labor and delivery, ensuring the safety and well-being of both mother and baby
- Strong knowledge of newborn care, including feeding, bathing, and monitoring vital signs
- Excellent communication skills to effectively educate and support new parents
- Ability to handle emergency situations and provide immediate medical interventions
- Proficient in documenting and maintaining accurate medical records
- Strong interpersonal skills to build trust and rapport with patients and their families
- Ability to work collaboratively with other healthcare professionals in a multidisciplinary team
- Commitment to continuous professional development and staying updated with the latest advancements in midwifery practice
Qualifications & Education
- A degree in midwifery is essential
- Registered nurses can do a 12-18 month shortened course
- Graduates from other disciplines must undertake the full three or four-year degree programme
- Entry to midwifery training without a degree or HND is also possible
- Applicants must have a minimum of five GCSEs (or equivalent)
- Applicants must have at least two A-levels (or equivalent) for degree programmes
- There is a lower age limit of 17 years 6 months to enter training
Career Path
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can become a midwife without a nursing degree. While being a nurse is one route into the profession, it is not the only way. You can find more information on the midwifery role page.
Yes, being a midwife is a good career choice. It is fulfilling, rewarding, and allows you to support women during and after their pregnancies while bringing new life into the world. Additionally, you will learn a variety of skills on the job and receive great working benefits.
The career progression for a midwife in the UK can include becoming a ward manager or team leader with experience. There are also opportunities to train and become a health visitor, a director of midwifery, or a midwifery consultant.
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