City Research Online

Abstract

Background
The Philippines is struggling to lower its maternal mortality rate and while midwives are nationally recognized as autonomous maternal health care providers, research suggests they may not receive adequate training or support to fulfill their functions.

Aim
To gain deeper understanding of the lived experiences of student midwives in the Philippines with the intent to make recommendations that may assist midwifery programs to meet international standards for midwifery education.

Method
A qualitative research project with a realist constructivist approach, using semistructured interviews to explore perceived barriers and facilitators of a group of Filipino student midwives in achieving International Confederation of Midwives’ standards during training.

Findings
Thematic analysis led to the creation of one central concept, supported by six overarching themes and 18 subthemes, describing a disempowering culture for student midwives due to medical paternalism and the low status of midwifery in the Philippines.

Discussion and Recommendations
Student midwives in the Philippines may routinely face disempowering experiences which limit them in achieving clinical competency prior to graduation. Recommendations for improving midwifery programs include empowering students and improving methods of clinical instruction.

Conclusion
Student midwives remained resilient in their desire to serve their communities, even in the face of adversity encountered during training. While midwifery training may not currently reach International Confederation of Midwives standards, increased investment, and support of midwives in the Philippines may lead to improved training opportunities in the future.

Publication Type:	Article
Publisher Keywords:	Midwife, midwifery, assessment-educational needs, qualitative research, midwifery-led care
Subjects:	H Social Sciences > HN Social history and conditions. Social problems. Social reform L Education > LB Theory and practice of education > LB2300 Higher Education R Medicine > RG Gynecology and obstetrics
Departments:	School of Health & Medical Sciences School of Health & Medical Sciences > Midwifery & Radiography
SWORD Depositor:	Symplectic Administrator

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