Friday, February 13, 2015

Seeing my mum give birth in our living room inspired me to do midwifery

Tamsin Bicknell shares a day in the life of her work as a specialist midwife, working with women who struggle with drug and alcohol issues

Unusually for a midwife, I work nine to five, Monday to Friday. I generally care for the women who are the most chaotic substance and/or alcohol users; those who find it difficult to fit in with the “normal” maternity systems.

Some women may not yet be engaged in drug or alcohol treatment. Many have had traumatic childhoods, they may be experiencing domestic abuse and often have mental health problems among other things. These women are often living in inappropriate or insecure housing, or are homeless.

Related: Clinical psychologist: I learn from my clients about what it is to be human

Related: Alcohol-related mental health problems are a huge issue for older people

It’s impossible not to lie in bed at night wondering whether a woman we’ve not managed to see for a while is OK

Related: 'I took a pay cut to be a home birth midwife, but it was worth it'

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