The reality of being a midwife in the NHS

Thank you so much for your replies everyone, sorry it's taken me so long to respond but I've been taking a bit of time out from midwifery this week and clearing my head. I completely agree with you all, I know it's students like us all who have the power to change the future so I've just gotta hang in there and be strong in times of despair!
I knew this course would be like a three year roller coaster... I just didn't realise the ups and downs would be so intense so soon!
It probably doesn't help that I used to work in a similar setting to Koalagrrry and took it for granted that I would be able to give the same high level of care in this job too. I guess this first hospital placement removed the rose tinted glasses I didn't even realise I was wearing :-$
Next time I shall be going in more prepared! Thanks again for all your replies, it really helps to know I'm not the only one to feel this way xxx

This was one of the very situations that worried me and put me off applying for a long time.
The unit I did a lot of work on (via agency as support worker) was often short staffed and newly qualified midwives were put into situations Im certain they shoudlnt have been and I left the job, thinking it wasnt for me , but, I now desperately miss the environment, the team sprit and cannot wait to get back- what I am saying is, you do have to be realistic to the constraints we have against us, working with limited budgets etc, but, you also have to remember the bare bones as to why you chose to train as a midwife.
I am passionate about the science of pregnancy and the art of birth and supporting women and families is what I long to do, keep your chin up hun and dont be afraid to admit to those around you that its all a bit crap sometimes, as long as you go back with fighting spirit and determination to do your little bit to making things better xx

Never give up to listen to your heart and don't compromise on your vision, how things should be, as with your compassion and perseverance and patience you can make a true difference.