I’ve had type one diabetes for about 12 years now and I’m just finishing a psychology degree and really want to go into midwifery. However, everyone I speak to says it’s a bad idea because of the shift work? I’m absolutely heartbroken and so confused because I’ve never let my diabetes hold me back and I’d hate for it to ruin something I can see myself loving. I’d love any advice because I’m so stuck.
Hi - I'm a Consultant Anaesthetist with Type 1; one of our Theatre Sister's is also a Type 1, as is one of our ODPs. You'll find a lot of support in the working environment and your team will be very fortunate to have a Type 1 midwife with the increasing number of pregnant mums with diabetes that we are looking after now. I've found a CGM (Dexcom) incredibly useful. Night shifts need a bit of extra thought with the BG control but are quite manageable. You can always see what the effect is for you now by staying up through the night and sleeping the next day (as if you were doing a shift). A CGM will make it much easier to see what's happening. The very best of luck, and thank you for choosing a career in healthcare. Best wishes, Ian