New study on how midwives cope with trauma

There is currently little research in this area and it is hoped the conclusions will make a difference to the support provided for midwives.

The team behind the study decided on the topic after previously looking at the effect traumatic childbirth has on new mothers.

The RCM has agreed that the project is suitable for its members to participate and will be forwarding a questionnaire to a random sample of midwives.

Sue MacDonald, RCM education and research manager, said: ‘The RCM supports this project as it will uncover evidence from practitioners in order to be able to build in supportive structures, services and strategies to enable midwives to cope with traumatic events, and continue to provide sensitive care to women and babies.’

Those midwives who are contacted will be asked to complete a questionnaire that has been developed with advice from a reference group of experienced midwives.

The study has been reviewed and approved by an ethics committee and initial pilot work suggested that midwives would be keen to take part.

The questionnaire is due to be posted over the coming weeks and the authors say the responses of those who are contacted are vital for the study. 

Kayleigh Sheen, who is conducting this research as part of her doctoral studies, said: ‘If a copy arrives through your door, please fill it in and send it back as soon as possible.

‘Your experiences are valuable and will help us understand more about how midwives perceive these potentially difficult events.’

Kayleigh is completing the study with of Pauline Slade, a professor in clinical psychology and Helen Spiby, a professor in midwifery.

The research team would like to thank all of the midwives who have helped so far with the piloting and development of the questionnaire.