International Midwifery Day: Meet Fotini Giortan

The International Day of the Midwives was established in 1991 and is celebrated every year on May 5, at the initiative of the International Confederation of Midwives (ICM).

The aim of the International Day is to highlight the important role played by the midwife, the mother for the older ones, in the process of giving birth to a child.

Η Fotini Giortan by Paralimni explains to us the reasons that led her to choose the profession of midwife.

How many years have you been in the profession?

I have been working at the private Leto hospital in Paralimni for the past 5 years and last year I started a childbirth preparation center through my joining the NHS as a private midwife. The Ciclos Midwifery Services.

What made you choose this profession?

I believe that what motivated me to pursue midwifery was the excitement at the idea of ​​bringing new lives into the world! Later, as I deepened through studies, various seminars and most importantly the experience I gained in the field I work in, they made me love the profession I chose even more. It's not just childbirth. It is the whole journey of motherhood. Preparation, information about pregnancy, breastfeeding, psychological support and much more are within this profession.

Why do we need a midwife?

The midwife is the person you need to have by your side like your gynecologist. The midwife can ensure the maintenance of a healthy and safe pregnancy always in collaboration with the gynecologist. Attendance by a midwife can help new couples, parents, manage questions and concerns. It is necessary to be next to the new parents from the beginning until the delivery and then even in the delivery room where the mothers need even more love and empathy.

During labor the midwife can provide support and assistance to the woman as well as her partner. Provides advice on body position during labor as well as breathing and relaxation. She can also help with pain management and provide support and advice on using other pain relief methods during labour.

What part of your job is your favorite?

I think my favorite part is definitely the birthing process where a new person so magically comes into the world. I have always been moved by this image with the father in tears and the woman being transformed. The power that emanates from the female body at this particular moment is incredible. You see death with your own eyes and come back to life in a few seconds. The woman at that moment is reborn and is now a mother. It is the moment when the girl inside her kneels down to give birth to the woman, the mother.

Where do you think a more experienced midwife differs from a younger one?

A midwife with more experience usually has more knowledge in managing emergencies and emergencies during normal labour. In addition, he has a more stable and strategic approach to solving problems and managing all cases with complications. This can be especially beneficial in situations where experienced judgment and prompt decision are required. On the other hand, a younger midwife may have more energy and be more accessible to work with the pregnant woman and her partner. Communication is important between the midwife and the couple. But both have training and education to provide safe and effective care to pregnant women and their newborns.

Interview with Christiana Markou / Famagusta.news