How to Choose the Right Midwifery Internship Program

Pursuing a career in midwifery is both meaningful and demanding. As a midwife, you'll play a vital role in supporting women through pregnancy, labor, birth, and postpartum care. Whether you’re just beginning your healthcare journey or considering a career shift, gaining real-world experience through a midwifery internship can be a defining step in your path.

But with so many programs available—especially internationally—it’s important to know what to look for. The right internship should not only align with your goals but also offer practical exposure, safety, and support. Here’s how to choose a midwifery internship program that truly prepares you for a future in maternal health.

> Explore Go-Elective’s Pre-Midwifery Internships and Midwifery Electives Abroad

Why Choose a Midwifery Internship?

Midwifery internships bridge the gap between academic study and clinical practice. They allow aspiring midwives to:

• Shadow experienced practitioners
• Assist with prenatal care and deliveries
• Learn about global maternal health challenges
• Build communication, empathy, and leadership skills

For students looking to gain an edge before applying to midwifery graduate programs or midwifery school, internships abroad can be especially valuable.

What to Look For in a Midwifery Internship Program

1. Safe, Comfortable Housing and a Supportive Environment

If you're considering an international placement, housing and safety should be top priorities. A well-structured program will offer secure, furnished accommodations and ensure interns are in a safe and welcoming environment.

Ask about:

• On-site security and staff availability
• Proximity to the hospital or clinic
• Access to public transportation
• Shared vs. private accommodations

At Go Elective, for example, interns in Kenya and Tanzania stay in vetted housing with 24/7 support, local staff, and organized transport to and from their clinical sites.

2. Customizable and Flexible Learning Tracks

Not all interns know exactly what area of midwifery they want to pursue. A great program offers flexibility—allowing you to rotate through departments such as labor and delivery, postnatal care, and neonatal support.

Bonus: Seek out programs that include community outreach. Engaging with local families outside of the clinical setting gives you insight into traditional birth practices, public health education, and the social determinants that shape maternal care.

3. A Strong Local and International Support System

Traveling abroad for your internship is exciting—but it also comes with challenges. You’ll want the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have a reliable support team both locally and back home.

Ask your program:

• Who do I contact in case of an emergency?
• Are there local staff on the ground?
• Is there a dedicated team to help with logistics and well-being?

Programs like Go Elective provide end-to-end support—from pre-departure orientation to in-country assistance—so you’re never alone during your internship.

4. Meaningful, Hands-On Training Opportunities

Shadowing is a start—but it’s the hands-on moments that really shape your confidence. Look for midwifery internships that go beyond observation to offer interactive learning in:

• Antenatal visits and birth planning
• Monitoring labor and fetal health
• Participating in natural and assisted births
• Postnatal assessments and education

Make sure to ask: Will I be involved in deliveries? Will I get to work directly with patients under supervision?

Midwifery interns placed through Go Elective at facilities like Coast General Teaching and Referral Hospital often assist in maternity wards, labor rooms, and newborn units—guided by licensed midwives and OB/GYN specialists.

Why Midwifery Internships Abroad Stand Out

While domestic internships are useful, international programs offer added depth:

• Exposure to high-volume maternity units and limited-resource environments
• Understanding how cultural beliefs impact maternal care
• Greater adaptability and cross-cultural communication skills
• Travel and personal growth that enhances your overall perspective

If you're considering a career in global maternal health or working in underserved communities, internships in East Africa provide powerful, transformative experiences.

Final Thoughts: Set the Foundation for a Career in Midwifery

Choosing the right midwifery internship program is about more than just checking a requirement—it’s about setting yourself up for a career of confidence, compassion, and clinical excellence. The experience you gain now will shape how you care for future mothers and families.

If you're ready to take the next step, explore Go Elective’s midwifery internships in Kenya and Tanzania. Our programs offer hands-on maternity rotations, immersive cultural experiences, and a global perspective on maternal health—designed to support your journey into this life-changing profession. Apply here.

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Recent Articles , Pre-health, Nursing Internships,

Author: Go-Elective Abroad

Date Published: Jun 16, 2025