ICM strengthening bonds across midwifery

By Megan Critchlow, second year student midwife, University of Huddersfield on 12 June 2023 Maternity Services RCM UK Midwives Midwifery Workforce Midwifery ICM - International Congress of Midwives

RCM competition winner Megan Critchlow shares what being a student midwife means to her as she looks forward to attending this year's International Congress for Midwives and what she hopes to take away from the experience.

Being a student midwife allows me to be able care for women in a way that I have always dreamed of while working alongside others who share the same passion as I do. For me, midwifery has always been about supporting and advocating for women at a time where they may feel most vulnerable and, that alone, is the reason why I pursued this career.

So far in my training I have cared for so many strong and independent women. They inspire me and will continue to carry me through my time at university and my career. However studying midwifery at a time where the profession is facing challenges can be extremely difficult. It ultimately comes down to the compassion, commitment, and courage of the midwives that I have been fortunate enough to work alongside. This is a constant reminder of why I am training to become a midwife.

My role as a student is to work alongside midwives and other health professionals to provide the safest care possible to the women and families that use the service. When I look back to when I first started my training, I was a nervous member of the team. But over time, I have grown in confidence and am able to give the care to women that they deserve.

I have been fortunate enough to work with some incredible midwives, but I have taken a particular interest in antenatal screening. Guiding women through the process of screening is so important as informed consent is key. Again, it comes down to the job satisfaction of feeling that you have helped the woman and family make crucial decisions throughout their pregnancy.

Being given the opportunity to attend the congress in Bali is a once in a lifetime opportunity, and one that I will be eternally grateful for. I cannot wait to meet and listen to others that are so passionate about women’s health as well as being in a part of the world that I have always wanted to go to. For me, it is an experience that I will never forget! 

I absolutely love travelling, especially long-haul, and what better way to combine it with a role that I love equally as much. The Royal College of Midwives have given me an opportunity that I will cherish for the rest of my career.