Midwifery students who return to study following birth: Can it be too soon?
Midwifery academics face a discourse of professional, ethical, moral values and beliefs caused by the opposing philosophies between being an educator and a midwife. Midwifery academics wish to respect the student’s autonomy yet still advise on the midwifery philosophical values espousing motherhood as a time for bonding, nurturing and protecting the mother-infant dyad.
There are no statutory parameters associated with returning to study after maternity leave. Midwifery students who take leave to birth, during their studies, decide autonomously how soon they return to university and clinical placements. Some choose to return to class within a matter of days/weeks after birth.
Our study explored students’ motivation in returning to their midwifery studies post-birth. We explored factors influencing midwifery students’ decision to recommence their studies following the birth of their baby and their experiences of the barriers and enablers. Early analysis shows equal percentages of students returning under three months, between three and six months and after 6 months with a majority returning full time. Flexible delivery of classes has helped in a faster return for some, along with the desire to finish with their cohorts. Some participants stated that although they did come back early, they now wish, and indeed would do different, if they had their time over.
It is critical that midwifery educators provide woman-centred care when interpreting universities policies to protect the mother-baby dyad. We need to minimise educational challenges and support midwifery students to complete their studies in a timely manner.
This presentation will provide some preliminary results on our sequential explanatory design study and engage the audience in a discussion on their experiences. Through shared discussion, and learning, we can develop supports for midwifery students that align with our professional, ethical, and moral values and beliefs as sadly not all students felt welcome in returning to their midwifery program post birth.