3 things you never knew a midwife can do: 'We wear many hats!'

Welcoming newborn babies into the world is a big part of a midwife's job, but, as Elizabeth from the Australian College of Midwives tells Yahoo Lifestyle, it's not the only part.

"When I tell someone that I'm a midwife, the first thing they say is, 'It must be lovely seeing babies being born every day,' but there is so much more to what we do," she says.

Midwives are a great source of knowledge when it comes to newborn babies and helping parents boost their confidence before, during and after childbirth.

To mark the Australian College of Midwives' recent endorsement of the Cetaphil Baby Range, Elizabeth has shared three surprising things you might not know about midwives.

RELATED:

• Steph Claire Smith's 'one commitment' during pregnancy

• ‘I had no idea’: Celeste Barber shocked by ‘serious’ health issue

• Mum’s horror as X-rated sounds play through baby’s nightlight

Midwives don’t just 'catch babies'

Midwives do far more than just catch babies. The impact midwives have is not just on pregnancy outcomes, but extends to newborn care, breastfeeding, family planning and sometimes also cervical and breast cancer screening.

We also run antenatal classes that teach expectant parents everything they will need to know to look after their new baby. The main things that your midwife will talk you through are:

• How to prepare for labour

• The signs of labour and when to call the hospital

• The different stages of labour

• Different birthing positions

• Relaxation and birthing techniques

• Early parenting

• Breastfeeding

• Newborn baby behaviour

• Recommended products to use with your baby

Midwives perform many different roles

Midwives can work in many different areas of maternity. Some midwives work in the postnatal ward looking after mum and baby while others work in the community, once mum and baby have left on the early discharge program.

Midwives also work alongside obstetricians in their private clinics providing antenatal and postnatal care. There are also midwifery educators who look after the upcoming midwifery students and ensuring staff are up to date with their mandatory training. We wear so many hats!

Midwives can assist with preconception planning

Some midwives have been trained in family planning, meaning they can assist with preconception planning.

Some studies have shown that working with a midwife can help increase your chances of conception. They can assist by educating you and your partner about your making lifestyle changes to increase fertility, or helping you better understand your ovulation cycle.

Midwives can also offer counselling. Simply talking with someone knowledgeable can make all the difference. Trying to conceive is stressful enough, so getting a fresh and informed perspective can be helpful.

Never miss a thing. Sign up to Yahoo Lifestyle’s daily newsletter.

Or if you have a story idea, email us at lifestyle.tips@verizonmedia.com.