Paywand Safeen Naqshbandi - BSc N, MSc in Maternity Nursing, Erbil Polytechnic University, the Kurdistan Region of Iraq
Muaf Abdulla Karim - BSc N, MSc N, PhD Nursing, College of Nursing, Al-Kitab University, Iraq.
Dlzar Omer Qadir - Assistant Lecturer, College of Nursing, Hawler Medical University

Introduction: Given the high childbirth rates and demanding environment of maternity wards, newly graduated midwives usually undergo much stress. To prepare such midwives, they are required to participate in a transition period program following their graduation. The current study was aimed at analyzing the lived experiences newly graduated midwives during their transition period in order to come up with a deep understanding of their feelings, concerns, and needs.   Methods: The present qualitative phenomenological study was participated by 15 newly graduated female midwives women who were doing their transition period in Maternity Hospital of Erbil during December to April 2018. Semi-structured in-depth interviews were conducted to collect required data. Van Manen’s method was used to analyze the collected data.   Findings: Data analysis gave way to appearance of two main themes namely “Dilemma of staying in or quitting the midwifery profession” and “Struggle to gain confidence through supportive environment”.   Conclusion: Midwifery department is a stressful environment which can have negative effects on the newly graduated midwives; therefore, they need to be provided with supportive environments, helping such midwives to gain confidence and stay in the profession.

Newly Graduated Midwives, Lived Experience, Qualitative Study, Van Manen’s Method.