What it takes to develop self-confidence and competence in midwifery students for midwifery practice

Background: Midwifery practice is multidimensional and complex in supporting women's reproductive health. Midwives provide care through pregnancy, birth, and the puerperium and may extend to sexual and reproductive health. Midwifery education must develop self-confidence and competence within each midwifery student. This must be learned before registering as a midwife and entering midwifery practice. Little is known about how educational experiences influence midwifery students' confidence. Aim: The aim of this study was to understand the educational experiences that influence self-confidence and competence development among midwifery students. Design and methods: A qualitative descriptive design was used in this study. Data were collected through seven focus group discussions with 37 midwifery students. The discussions were recorded and professionally transcribed. Data were analysed using thematic analysis. Results: The analysis resulted in four themes: (1) Understanding the concept of competence, (2) developing competence in midwifery practice, (3) obstacles to developing competence, and (4) the importance of self-confidence to be competent. The development of self-confidence and competence is gained through acquiring knowledge and skills, participating in research, undertaking clinical and simulated practice, attending seminars, and engaging in independent learning. Conclusion: Midwifery students described how the increase in self-confidence can lead to an increase in competence, enabling the provision of high-quality midwifery services.