Midwife Career in South Africa
Explore the official OFO occupation, common tasks, specialisations and approved South African qualification pathways.
Occupation overview
Provides care and advice to woman during pregnancy, labour and childbirth, and postnatal care for woman and babies in a range of settings such as the home, community, hospitals, clinics and health units.
What does a Midwife do?
A midwife supports women throughout pregnancy, labour and childbirth, and during the postnatal period. The role includes providing care and advice to women and babies in settings such as homes, communities, hospitals, clinics and health units. Midwives need to communicate clearly, provide compassionate support and respond carefully to the changing needs of mothers and newborns.
How to become a Midwife in South Africa
- Learn about the responsibilities of midwives and the different settings in which they work.
- Compare relevant study pathways, including Certificate: Nursing: Midwifery; Diploma: Nursing: Advanced Midwifery and Neonatology; Diploma: Nursing: General: Psychiatry: Community and Midwifery; Further National Certificate: Advanced Midwifery and Neonatal Nursing Science; and Post-basic Diploma: Midwifery.
- Choose a suitable pathway and confirm current admission, provider, assessment and professional requirements with SAQA, the relevant quality council, an accredited provider or the appropriate official body.
- Complete the selected education and training pathway, developing the knowledge and practical ability needed to care for women and babies during pregnancy, childbirth and the postnatal period.
- Keep informed about current requirements for working as a midwife and the settings in which midwifery services are provided.
Edupstairs Preparation Guidance
Relevant pathways listed for this career include qualifications at NQF Level 5, with listed credit values ranging from 120 to 360 credits. These qualifications can support preparation for midwifery, but the most suitable route depends on the learner’s circumstances and the current requirements of the provider and relevant official bodies. Confirm current qualification status, availability, admission rules, assessment arrangements and professional requirements before enrolling.
Useful school subjects
- Life Sciences
- English
- Mathematics
- Mathematical Literacy
Skills that may help
- Compassionate patient care
- Clear verbal and written communication
- Active listening
- Careful observation
- Calm decision-making
- Emotional resilience
- Attention to detail
- Respectful support for women and babies