A virtual event designed to reconnect midwives with the philosophy, knowledge and practical skills that support physiological birth. The program explores birth physiology, the mind–body connection, and approaches such as waterbirth, acupressure and active birth, alongside communication strategies that support informed maternal decision-making. Together, these sessions will deepen understanding and strengthen midwives’ capacity to protect and promote physiological birth in contemporary maternity care.
• Dr Brooke Henshall, Research Midwifery Manager for the Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Newborn Health-University of Melbourne at the Mercy Hospital for Women, presenting on Understanding physiological birth as a concept and process.
• Dr Catherine Bell, maternity advocate, author, researcher, and community leader, presenting on Facilitating Communication and Supporting Maternal Decision Making.
• Dr Megan Cooper, Associate Professor in Midwifery and Head of Discipline (Midwifery) at The University of Queensland, presenting on Beyond the Water: The Deeper Dimensions of Immersing in Birth
• Heidi Williams, Privately Practising Endorsed Midwife and current a PhD candidate, presenting on Pre-birth and Intrapartum Acustimulation - A practical guide for supporting women and families.
• Dr Liz Newnham, Associate Professor of Midwifery at Flinders University presenting on Rethinking birth physiology: Insights for contemporary practice
• Dr Nigel Lee, midwife and senior research fellow at the University of Queensland, presenting on Towards a physiological approach to preventing perineal injury.
• Karen McClay, Midwife and Director of Calmbirth, presenting on Supporting Physiological Birth through an understanding of the Mind Body Birth Connection.
• Meg Austin, Endorsed Midwife and Spinning Babies™ AWARE Practitioner, presenting on Supporting Physiology & Restoring Balance in Labour & Birth using Spinning Babies™ Practices.
• Dr Orli Dahan, Head of the Multidisciplinary Studies Department at Tel-Hai University of Kiryat Shmona and the Galilee, presenting on Birthing Consciousness: Insights into Physiological Birth from the Perspective of Consciousness Research.
• Dr Claire Feeley, Senior Lecturer and researcher at King’s College London, presenting on What midwives need to support physiological birth choices 'outwith' guidelines: The ASSET model.