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Because many Minti members are expecting babies, I thought it would be helpful to get some insights and advice from a mom who works closely with expectant and new parents in her career. A mom-friend of mine has worked as a Labor and Delivery nurse for 18 years. I asked her a few questions I thought Minti parents might want answered. Here’s what she had to say.
Q. What made you decide to follow a career path in Nursing?
A. There are a lot of options in nursing. There are many different care settings and specialty areas to choose from. Flexible scheduling and hours were also a plus as I wanted a career that could flex to my lifestyle. As a nursing student, I spent a little time in a number of different care settings. I think a lot of students find their area of calling while student nursing and then pursue internships in the specialty of choice. I definitely was passionate about maternal-child nursing from the start. I felt a great sense of gratification helping couples become parents and in teaching moms about caring for themselves and for their infants.
Q. What is your favorite part of your job?
A. The Labor Unit is exhilarating as each case is different and each couple has their own story. I often work a full twelve hour shift with the same family and really get the chance to know them. It’s amazing how you can walk in at 7am and be total strangers and by the end of 12 hours you can feel a real connection with your patients. It’s very special to attend a birth. I consider it a privilege.
Q. How has your career impacted your family?
A. I work outside the home 1 or 2 days per week. My husband is able to watch our daughter on those days. It’s great for both of them to have one-on-one time together. I also feel my job sets a positive example for my daughter in that she sees me caring for and being in service of others. She is aware that I care for moms and babies. She always asks me details about my work day like, “What did they name the baby?” and discussing it with her gives me an opportunity to look back on my day with a sense of gratification and accomplishment. I’m sure she senses that and it reflects positively on working and also serving others outside of our own family. Personally, it helps give me a sense of balance as I maintain my career and collaborate with other adults.
Q. Can you share some advice for mothers who are nearing their due date and are preparing to give birth?
A. I personally feel that women supporting other women during delivery is important. Giving birth is awesome and exciting, but it can be frightening. Another woman’s presence, whether it is a mother, sister, friend, doula, or Labor and Delivery nurse is truly a comfort. It’s also a great idea to write out a “birthing plan” but it’s very important to be prepared to be flexible with it. Being consumed with an “ideal” scenario can set a mother up for a sense of failure and/or guilt. When you approach giving birth with an understanding that your plan might have to be altered, you’ll be better able to handle any unexpected situations that could arise.
Q. Do you have any advice to give brand new parents?
A. Yes. After you’re home with your newborn, allow your family a few days to settle in. Have your significant other practice visitor control. I also think it’s important to allow your baby to adjust you your life, complete with voices, household noises, and lighting. I don’t think you should try to recreate the womb in your home. Another very important thing to do is to sleep when your baby sleeps. And moms, nourish your bodies with good, healthy foods, plenty of water, and a multi-vitamin. Inevitably, you will get lots of advice and read all kinds of information. Consider it all and then allow yourself to start trusting your instincts as you begin to step into your role as a parent. You may make some mistakes. You may not be able to do it all. That’s normal and it’s OK. Just try to relax and enjoy your precious miracle.
(September 2006) (
