Having experience as a gynaecologist and midwife for almost three decades, Mrs. So Sophany shares her tips to become a skilled and virtuous midwife. In 1986, Sophany graduated and became a midwife and a part-time teacher. Ten years later, she was promoted to deputy director of the technical office at Kampot Regional Health School and director of the Midwife Department.

“First, it is important as a midwife to be very knowledgeable from your studies; second, having skills and work experience, and third,maintaining good behaviour and patience,” Sophany said.

Not quite 59-years-old, Sophany also explained that she has seen some outstanding students awarded Student of the Month, but once getting a job as a midwife, they had few clients. This might be due, in part, to a lack of good attitude.

Sophany also emphasised the problem that sometimes within one night, they may be 10 babies to deliver and the midwife can become exhausted, pale and, often, act with arrogance towards the patients.

So, having patience with the clients is very important. Sophany also added: “As a midwife, it is a devotion and commitment to helping women because you might miss out on family time as you will work many hours both day and night.”