Midwife Bernie McMain with baby Henry, who she recently helped deliver at RBWH
Beloved midwife Bernie McMain has been with RBWH for 50 years this year and is showing no signs of slowing down!
Not only has she delivered tens of thousands of babies and cared for countless mothers, but Bernie has witnessed the many ways midwifery has changed since the 1970s.
“I started training as a nurse 50 years ago. I lived here on campus for that time – we didn’t go to university for nursing or midwifery back then!” Bernie said.
“Throughout our training we weren’t allowed to walk in front of a matron or sister and we’d never call them by their first name like we do today.”
Bernie says that for her, one of the biggest changes has definitely been the uniforms.
“They used to be so starchy and rough, you’d have red marks at your neck from the collar in no time. We certainly don’t wear the old caps anymore either.”
Although midwifery has changed a lot, Bernie also reflects on the many parts that have stayed the same over the decades.
“I’ve always loved getting to know the patients and caring for them as they learn to look after bub,” she said.
“It’s mostly an extraordinarily happy job. It does have its sad days too, but overall it’s a really lovely profession.
“I also like teaching the young midwives, doctors and students as they come in. Sharing that experience is so important for the future generations of healthcare workers.”
Bernie is a much-loved member of RBWH’s midwifery team. She even handmakes unique quilts for all of her colleagues who have their own babies and for colleagues who retire – each featuring special details on the design celebrating different parts of being a midwife.
A big congratulations to Bernie for this career milestone – RBWH is lucky to have you!