Is being a midwife worth it? Real Pros and Cons
Choosing a career as a midwife is not only a career decision, but also a vocation. Accompanying women in pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum can be deeply rewarding, but it also entails important challenges that are often not visible. If you are considering studying Obstetrics or already work in this field, this article will help you assess the true pros and cons of being a midwife, based on experience and evidence.
Advantages of being a midwife: beyond salary
The work of a midwife is a unique combination of science, emotional accompaniment and action at decisive moments. Here are some real benefits of this profession:
- Deep human and emotional contact: You accompany intense moments such as childbirth, generating unique bonds with families.
- Professional autonomy: In many health systems, midwives have the capacity to act independently in normal pregnancies.
- High employability: The demand for midwives continues to grow, especially in European public systems such as the Spanish, British or Dutch according to the WHO
- Diversity of job opportunities: You can work in hospitals, health centers, private clinics, in home care, and even self-employed.
- Sense of purpose: Many midwives express deep satisfaction with their work, feeling that they make a real difference in people's lives.
Midwives are present at one of the most transcendental moments of life: birth.
The real challenges of being a midwife
Not everything is vocation and tenderness. Being a midwife also comes with significant physical, mental and emotional challenges that should be considered from the outset.
- Demanding shifts: 12 or 24-hour shifts, nights and weekends can disrupt rest and family life.
- High emotional charge: Accompanying difficult births, perinatal deaths, or traumatic experiences can be emotionally draining.
- Legal and bureaucratic pressure: Midwives take a great deal of legal responsibility in every clinical decision they make.
- Lack of recognition: In some settings, their work is still invisible compared to that of other health professionals.
- Limited access to training: In countries such as Spain, access is only through the EIR (Resident Internal Nurse), with limited places and high competence.
"Midwifery is a profession of dedication, but also of limits. Taking care of mothers starts with taking care of yourself."
And the salary? Realistic expectations
The salary of a midwife varies greatly depending on the country, the type of contract and experience. In Spain, a midwife in the public system can earn between 1,800 and 2,500 euros net per month, with allowances depending on on-call and seniority. In countries such as the United Kingdom, Germany or Norway, salaries are higher, but so is the cost of living.
Beyond the salary, many midwives value aspects such as job stability, professional growth and the impact of their work on society.
Is it a good decision to study to be a midwife?
If you have a passion for accompanying women, you are interested in reproductive health and you are not afraid to face situations of high emotional and clinical responsibility, being a midwife can be one of the most rewarding professions that exist.
However, you should also consider whether you are willing to take on the demands of studying (such as the EIR in Spain), the changing shifts and the emotional pressure that this role can imply. Talking to active midwives, doing real internships and seeking honest testimonials can help you make a down-to-earth decision.
Guidance information