We are two Norwegian midwifery students who spent two weeks in Kaunas, Lithuania, doing birth practice at Kaunas Clinics. We were welcomed by friendly midwives who allowed us to participate in births from the very first day. In addition, we got to experience working in the emergency room, where midwives attended both routine pregnancy consultations and women in need of urgent care.
It was interesting to observe how maternity and birth care is organized in Lithuania, as well as how the hospital ward is structured. There is clear interdisciplinary collaboration between midwives, doctors, and assistants. At times, the language barrier impacted our understanding, ability to participate, and sense of inclusion, but together with the midwives we did our best—and learning a few Lithuanian phrases proved to be very helpful!
This has been an enriching experience that we will carry with us into our future work as midwives. We take with us valuable professional discussions about similarities and differences, which have offered meaningful reflections on the core values we bring with us into the profession. We encourage everyone who has the opportunity to go on exchange, whether short- or long-term. It provides a foundation for new experiences and perspectives that are highly relevant in the field of midwifery.
Tina & Elise
