The Challenges of Being a Male Midwife in a Female-Dominated Field
Midwifery is often seen as a profession meant for women, especially in countries like Nigeria, where cultural and societal norms strongly influence career choices. As a male midwife, my journey has been rewarding but filled with challenges that I’ve had to navigate with patience and resilience. Let me share some of these challenges and how I’ve managed to overcome them. 1. Breaking Stereotypes One of the first challenges I faced was society’s perception of men in midwifery. Many people believe it’s “strange” or “unusual” for a man to be involved in what they see as a woman’s profession. Common Misconception: People often ask, “Why would a man choose to become a midwife?” Some even assume I couldn’t find other career options. My Response: I’ve learned to explain that midwifery is about compassion, care, and saving lives—qualities that have no gender. 2. Earning Trust from Patients Many women are hesitant to have a male midwife care for them. Some feel uncomfortable or fear judgment, e...