Being there and reconnecting: Midwives' perceptions of the impact of Mindfulness training on their practice.

Abstract

To ascertain how midwives perceived attending a mindfulness course impacted on their professional practice, particularly in regard to any stress they experienced at work. A qualitative study using Interpretive Phenomenological Analysis. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with nine midwives. A large maternity Trust in the United Kingdom. An eight-week mindfulness course, adapted from mindfulness-based cognitive therapy. Four superordinate themes were identified as follows: "being challenged and committing," "containing the self," "reconnecting" and "moving forward with confidence." Focusing on the present moment enabled participants better to identify the boundary between self and other. This led to an increased sense of control and a reconnection with and reframing of relationships with colleagues and the women in their care. Mindfulness may provide an effective way to address the high levels of stress, role dissatisfaction and workplace bullying found in midwifery, by improving both the working environment and patient care. The pivotal role of positive workplace relationships in this process resonates with other nursing research and with contemporary philosophical thought. This study adds to a body of evidence which suggests investing in the well-being of midwifery staff improves both job satisfaction and women's experiences of care.