Call Your Local Student Midwives

By Chelsea Ravizza

James Cook University (JCU) Bachelor of Nursing Science and Midwifery students Ashely Green, Hayley Nosworthy, and Lauren Raitelli are dedicated, compassionate student midwifes looking to support local women in their pregnancy journeys. In fulfilling their undergraduate placements and requirements, each of the girls have fallen in love with all that midwifery entails and have assisted many women from Townsville and the Burdekin region in their pregnancies from prenatal care to postpartum support.

JCU’s midwifery students are required to witness five births and catch 30 babies over the course of their 4-year degree. Each student must attend antenatal appointments to gain additional hands-on Continuity of Care Experience (CCE) and knowledge, which can at times be difficult to factor into placement schedules on top of university requirements.

Ashley Green, fourth year JCU Nursing Science and Midwifery student, understands this difficulty, yet in pulling power from her passion has successfully supported 22 women in their pregnancies. Ashely has continued this support as far as six months after labor and feels great confidence in her midwifery abilities.

“These requirements show you’re competent and that you’re able, but doing what’s required of you and even extra instills confidence in yourself,” explained Ashley.

“The more experience, the better you are as a practicing midwife.”

Ashley’s confidence, and skills have led her to find clients with ease, and she is eager to follow eight more women on their journey before her graduation later this year. Her passion for midwifery originated from subject matter touched on within her nursing studies, and she encourages anyone with an interest in the industry to pursue studies at JCU.

“I love getting to know the women when they’re just starting their pregnancy, and follow them through right to the end, especially to go in with them for their birth, and help bring their little bubba into the world,” expressed Ashley.

As Lauren Raitelli enters her third year of her Bachelor of Nursing Science and Midwifery degree, she understands the importance her role plays in supporting women through their pregnancies. Lauren ensures the preferences of the women she supports are not overlooked throughout their pregnancy and in the delivery room, a task she believes to be the most important part of being a student midwife.

“I love bringing new life into the world, and it’s amazing to get to know the women, provide them with continuity of care, and communicate with them on what they want, especially when going through labor,” expressed Lauren.

The girls have collectively supported 43 women on their pregnancy journeys gaining priceless experience fourth year JCU Bachelor of Nursing Science and Midwifery student, Hayley Nosworthy will be forever grateful for.

“My passion lies in supporting and empowering women, recognizing their incredible strength and capabilities, and to be apart of their birthing experience is a privilege I cherish,” explained Hayley.

“The bonds we form with women throughout this degree, and in future practice, is truly unparalleled, and I will be forever grateful I chose to do midwifery as my career.”

For those interested in having additional support in their pregnancies, you may contact Ashley at ashley.green1@my.jcu.edu.au, Hayley at hayley.nosworthy@my.jcu.edu.au or Lauren at lauren.raitelli@my.jcu.edu.au. The girls are more than happy to assist you with any enquiries, questions, or queries, big or small, and express gratitude towards your support of your local student midwives.

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Caption: Hayley Nosworthy, Ashley Green and Lauren Raitelli. Photo supplied

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