These used to be difficult questions, but they are getting easier to answer. More opportunities are available now than ever in recent history. Schools are opening. Birth centers are more available. Not everywhere- Yet

In my 20 years in the field of midwifery, I have not seen growth like we are seeing now. The Internet is an example of this surge of information. Each week we get contacted from individuals and organizations to be included in the links section of this web page. The web is a great place to start finding out about midwifery.

Joining midwifery organizations such as The Midwives’ Alliance of North America (MANA) is a way to keep informed. Many organizations provide a lower cost membership fee for students and supporters. Joining as a student or aspiring student allows you to receive the organization’s newsletter and become familiar with midwifery, childbirth and women’s health issues. Attending conferences is a fun ( but somewhat expensive ) way to make friends and allies to help you on your journey. Conferences are a great place to learn about midwifery and buy books, art and related materials.

READ-READ-READ- everything you can get your hands on. Start building your own library. I have collected walls full of books! They are a valuable contribution to my practice. You must be a lover of knowledge and constantly building on what you know. It is also important to listen to your inner voice and use common sense. One of my Mennonite clients made the statement, “ common sense isn’t very common anymore!”. I agree. When I teach health on the college level, I take time to discuss common sense. One of my students said, “ we are in college, why do we need to discuss this? “. My answer is that if everyone knows about common sense then why is there so much sickness, disease and death caused by people not using it? Onnie Lee Logan called it Motherwit, and her wonderful book is both a lesson and an inspiration! She was one of our foremothers who the midwife community will miss.

MANA publishes an Aspiring Midwife Packet. Midwifery Today publishes an educational guide. The Farm midwives have a new book on schools. All have web sites for more information. Link to them from our links section. The American College of Nurse Midwives ( ACNM ) has lists of CNM schools. Visit their web site. Midwifery Today and the Birth Gazette are magazines directed towards midwifery practice. Both contain valuable information and resources.

Find out who the midwives are in your community. Go to their organization’s meetings. Volunteer your help while you still have time. They are probably very busy and would appreciate your input. Do this before you become a midwife and also are busy. Absorb wisdom! Look, listen and learn. Some information you will use later, and other you will find interesting but may not be your style. All will help you expand your knowledge base.

Enjoy your journey. You are entering an exciting career ( life ) that I feel never gets routine and boring. You will be continually challenged and will hopefully fall in love with your chosen profession.

Marilyn