I have been very disheartened, deflated, shattered and have felt so many other negative emotions during my last placement. To the point where I have seriously questioned if this whole midwifery scene was really for me, and if I was actually cut out to do it after all.

But, after reflecting back since I finished yesterday, I can now understand that it wasn't anyones fault, it was just a set of circumstances outside of anyone's control that all happened at once.

I have also realised that the advice I was given at uni makes sense, I didn't understand at the time and thought it was just a personal sleight on me. It wasn't I can see that now.

I see now that maybe if I had pushed myself more, and been a bit more forceful (in a nice way) I may have got more out of this placement.

I will take these thoughts with me into my next placement, and try and do that. I know it is going to be really hard cos I am not that kind of person, and it doesn't come naturally to me. I am happy just getting on with things in the background, and am not comfortable with pushing myself forward. But if it means I get the best out of the learning experience and from the midwive's I work with, then I know it will be worth it.

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Midwifemissy x

Student Midwife 2007
Student uni rep
Educational Resources Manager

PAB Support Worker

Good for you, Missy. This is how I have had to learn to be. This course really makes you stand up for yourself and be more assertive, I guess it is an attribute us future midwives need anyway!

I understand how you feel, as I am not comfortable doing that either, it seems though that to get the most out of it it is neccessary to be a little pushy, but in a good way.

It is a little like first -time pregnancy, current students, like current Mums tend to keep a bit quiet about the hidden things you learn whilst training.

Glad all is ok with you, and Iam looking forward to hearing how you get on!

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This may sound trite but write a reflection about how you feel, it will stand you in good stead in the future when you feel like the world is against you.... you'll read it and remember how you worked through those feelings before.

Big hug xx

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StudentMidwife.NET Founder

"You're braver than you believe. Stronger than you seem. And smarter than you think."
Christopher Robin in Pooh's Grand Adventure

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I hadn't thought of it like that TallPoppy, thanks for pointing that out.

I think I will print it out and keep a copy, as you say, it will be good to look back on in the future.

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Midwifemissy x

Student Midwife 2007
Student uni rep
Educational Resources Manager

PAB Support Worker