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CAREER PROFILE

Midwife

Midwives support pregnant people, newborns, and families through pregnancy, labour, birth, and the early postnatal period. In Canada, this career is part of healthcare and often involves close, continuous client care, careful observation, and strong communication. A midwife may work in clinics, hospitals, or community settings, and the role can be meaningful for students who want hands-on work and patient interaction.

EDUCATION ROUTEMultiple pathways
WORK STYLEHands-on options
CAREER FIELDHealth Science

HOW TO GET THERE

Typical pathway

People entering midwifery in Canada typically complete a recognized midwifery education program and then meet the requirements for registration in their province or territory. Students often benefit from biology, health, communication, and social science courses. Clinical learning and supervised practice are usually important parts of preparation. Because this is a regulated healthcare profession, the pathway can include formal education, practical training, and professional registration before working independently.

THE WORK

What you may do

  • Provide care during pregnancy, labour, birth, and after delivery
  • Monitor the health of the parent and baby
  • Offer information and guidance about pregnancy and newborn care
  • Help identify when extra medical support may be needed
  • Support families with practical and emotional care
  • Record client information and care details
  • Work with other healthcare professionals when necessary

A DAY IN THE LIFE

What a day can include

A midwife’s day may include appointments with pregnant clients, checking on health concerns, and answering questions about birth and newborn care. They may attend labour and delivery, support families through the birth process, and provide follow-up visits after the baby is born. Work can involve detailed documentation, collaboration with other healthcare providers, and being available for time-sensitive needs. The schedule may vary, especially when births happen outside regular office hours.

SKILLS TO BUILD

Skills used in this Career

CommunicationEmpathyObservationProblem-solvingAttention to detailClinical judgmentCalm under pressureTeamworkPhysical stamina

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