The life of a midwife is both challenging and rewarding, a sentiment echoed by Tracy, a dedicated midwife based in Perth, Australia. With seven years of experience under her belt, Tracy reflects on her career with deep satisfaction. “I wouldn’t change it for the world,” she says.

Tracy’s passion for midwifery runs deep. Her interest was sparked by her family heritage—both her mother and grandmother were midwives. “It’s run in my family for decades. Both my mum and grandma loved their jobs, and I grew up being around it. Giving birth was never an uncomfortable topic in my household when I was younger, and I guess their love and passion for midwifery steered me down the same path,” Tracy recalls.

For Tracy, the dynamic nature of midwifery is what makes it so special. “I guess the thing I do love most about my job is that it isn’t repetitive. Before I start a shift, I never know what to expect. I could be helping a woman deliver a baby, or maybe two babies (twins)! When you’re on the delivery ward, you are always in the heart of the action.”

In her role, Tracy provides comprehensive antenatal care, which includes clinical examinations, screenings, and parenting classes. She plays a crucial role in identifying women with high-risk pregnancies and works closely with them throughout their journey. Tracy also offers guidance on feeding and caring for newborns. “I think a lot of people forget that we aren’t just around for actual labour and birth. We provide a continuity of care service, and I really enjoy seeing a mum from the beginning of her pregnancy until after she has had her baby. It is really special,” she says.

Becoming a midwife in Australia involves completing a university degree followed by a course approved by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) to gain registration. Tracy pursued a three-year Bachelor’s degree in Midwifery. Reflecting on her educational journey, she adds, “It’s funny though, because as much as you do learn throughout your degree, nothing can actually prepare you for what it’s really like until you jump in and just do it.”

Tracy finds joy in working with both first-time mothers and those with multiple children, though she has a particular fondness for first-time mums. “First-time mums are so sweet! They are very excitable and sometimes jittery, and it is so lovely to see them already so in love during pregnancy. I talk women through everything and try to calm their nerves. Growing a life inside of you can be overwhelming sometimes, and I think it is important that women feel supported and heard,” she explains.

“At the end of the day, I think most midwives do what we do because we can combine our professional skills with heartfelt compassion” says Tracy.