Professional development in midwifery: findings from a longitudinal study of midwives' careers

Although much importance is attached to continuing professional education for nurses, midwives and health visitors, there is a paucity of empirical studies on the subject. This article reviews research in continuing education for midwives and adds to the body of literature by reporting on findings on continuing education obtained in the course of a longitudinal study of midwives' careers. The original impetus for the study was concern about attrition from the profession; the method chosen to examine the problem was a longitudinal study in which two large cohorts of midwives were followed-up by means of questionnaires sent to them at regular intervals from qualification onwards. Information has been obtained on the relationship to retention of career intentions, careers followed and many aspects of life as a midwife. Those aspects relating to continuing professional education and development include obtaining post-basic qualifications, opportunities for in-service education, professional development during breaks for child care, support and feedback from senior colleagues and views on the importance of continuing education and support in relation to retention.