PURPOSE:
This study explores whether continuity of midwifery care can reduce the number of infants legally removed from their mothers in Australia, using a feminist intersectionality lens. It centres on midwives’ lived experiences to examine how sustained, relational care may mitigate the risk of infant removal and its associated intergenerational trauma.

DISCUSSION:
Women who experience intersecting forms of marginalisation, such as poverty, homelessness, domestic family violence, and systemic racism, are disproportionately represented within child protection systems and are at heightened risk of recurrent infant removals across generations. Continuity of midwifery care, globally recognised for improving maternal and neonatal outcomes, may offer a protective mechanism by fostering trust, advocacy, and holistic support. This research investigates national and state-level service response pathways, focusing on midwifery interventions for women identified as at risk during the antenatal, intrapartum and postnatal periods. It examines the quality and impact of care provided to women who experienced, or were at risk of, infant removal between 2016 and 2026. By applying a feminist intersectionality framework, the study interrogates how overlapping systems of oppression—particularly gender, race, and class—shape women’s experiences of maternity care and child protection. Midwives’ insights reveal the structural barriers and opportunities within care systems, offering critical reflections on how continuity models can support women’s autonomy, reduce trauma, and improve long-term health outcomes. Findings will inform recommendations for sustainable, specialist midwifery infrastructures that prioritise relational care and equity.

EVIDENCE WHERE RELEVANT:
N/A

KEY MESSAGE:
The unique positioning of midwives at the centre of care throughout the childbirth journey for women and their families provides crucial opportunities to not only positively influence but also support potential lifestyle changes. It is well documented and acknowledged internationally that midwifery care uniquely impacts pregnancy outcomes for women and babies across the physiological, psychosocial, and emotional spectrum, and positively influences maternal and neonatal mortality and morbidities, improving intergenerational health. Poster session 4 (Group B)