Ice Breakers – for Student Midwives

Creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere during clinical appointments with pregnant women is essential. A relaxed and trusting relationship improves communication, helps women feel heard and supported, and ultimately leads to better care outcomes. 

General Conversation Starters: 

“How are you feeling today? Has anything been particularly exciting or challenging in your pregnancy so far?” 

“Is this your first pregnancy” OR “Do you have any little ones already?” 

“I know every pregnancy is different—how has this one been for you compared to your previous experiences (if applicable)?” 

 
Compliment and Light Personal Connection: 

“You’re glowing! Are you feeling as good as you look?” 
(This can be a positive and lighthearted way to start the conversation and make her feel appreciated.) 

“I noticed your [ultrasound photo] Have you chosen any names yet?” 
(If you notice something personal, it can lead to a discussion about baby names or preparations.) 

Pregnancy Milestone Check-ins: 

“You’re in your [second trimester, third trimester] – how are you feeling at this stage?” 

“How’s the little one moving around? Have you started to feel those first kicks yet?” 

Gentle Humour: 

“I’ve heard that pregnancy cravings can be pretty wild! Have you had any odd cravings, or are you just loving regular foods?” 

“Sometimes the bump seems to grow overnight, doesn’t it? How has your belly been changing lately?” 

Involve Her Partner or Support Person: 

“Has your partner or family been helping you with any special pregnancy rituals or preparing for the baby?” 

“How’s your partner feeling about all the upcoming changes?” 
(This opens the door for discussions on emotional support, which can also be important in pregnancy.) 

Questions About the Women’s Pregnancy Experience: 

“What has been the most surprising thing about your pregnancy so far?” 
(This lets her share anything unique or unexpected, and it often opens up a more natural flow of conversation.) 

“Is there something you’ve been especially excited about or nervous about as your due date gets closer?” 

Discussions About Birth Plans/Expectations: 

“Have you thought about your birth plan yet, or are you just going with the flow?” 

“Is there anything you’re especially hoping for during your birth experience?” 

Postpartum Planning: 

“What are you most looking forward to after the baby arrives? Have you made any plans or support systems in place to make things easier?” 

“Have you been able to think about your postpartum recovery and any help you might need once the baby is born?” 

“Pregnancy is the only time in life when you’ll fall in love with someone you haven’t met.”

Kristen Proby

Gentle Advice and Encouragement: 

“Pregnancy can bring up so many emotions -how have you been feeling about everything lately?” 

“You’re doing such an amazing job keeping yourself and your little one healthy. How’s your self-care routine been going?” 

Active Listening & Follow-Ups: 

After asking an initial question, it’s important to engage with what the pregnant women says and show genuine curiosity: 

“That sounds like such an interesting experience – could you tell me more about that?” 

“Wow, that must have been challenging! How did you manage it?” 

Tip: Always let take the lead of the woman in how much she wants to share. Some women may prefer to keep things more clinical, while others might want to chat more casually. Listening actively and respecting their boundaries will help create a safe space. 

Icebreakers help build rapport and being genuine and warm can go a long way in making the woman feel comfortable and open. 

Good luck with your interactions – you’ve got this!!