/library/oar/handle/123456789/342 Tue, 06 Jan 2026 20:17:55 GMT 2026-01-06T20:17:55Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/142100 Title: Midwives’ knowledge and views of acupressure during the perinatal period Authors: Galea, Chanelle; Pace Parascandalo, Rita Abstract: Overview: Acupressure involves the application of firm pressure on specific acupoints of the body using thumb or finger pressure. Acupressure is associated with numerous benefits when used during the perinatal period, such as preventing nausea and vomiting, reducing pain, inducing labour, aiding in breastmilk production, and decreasing anxiety throughout pregnancy, labour, and the postpartum period. This study sought to address a global gap in the literature regarding midwives’ knowledge and views on acupressure during the perinatal period. While previous literature has investigated acupressure’s effectiveness, there is limited understanding of midwives’ knowledge, specifically on acupressure and how they view and use this intervention in their midwifery practice. Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT /library/oar/handle/123456789/142100 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/142099 Title: The transition from student to midwife : uncovering the meaning of early practice experiences Authors: Gauci, Jeanette; Pace Parascandalo, Rita Abstract: Abstract Οverview: The transition from a student to newly qualified midwife (NQM) is a formative and often challenging period that significantly influences professional development and care quality. Experiences in high-intensity environments such as the Central Delivery Suite (CDS) play a key role in shaping the new midwife’s confidence, competence, and identity. Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT /library/oar/handle/123456789/142099 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/142094 Title: Exploring the impact of antenatal hypnobirthing education on tokophobia : a systematised literature review Authors: Buhagiar, Nadège; Pace Parascandalo, Rita Abstract: Introduction: Fear of childbirth, also known as tocophobia, has become an increasingly recognized factor contributing to perinatal mental health challenges and rising rates of planned caesarean sections globally. This concern has led to a growing interest in the potential of antenatal hypnobirthing education as a holistic approach to reduce these fears and support positive birth experiences. Grounded in the belief that birth is a natural and safe physiological process, hypnobirthing supports pregnant women in building a sense of self-trust, adopting a positive mindset towards labour, and approaching childbirth calmly through diverse relaxation, breathing and visualisation techniques. This systematized literature review examined the influence of antenatal hypnobirthing education on women with tocophobia. Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT /library/oar/handle/123456789/142094 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z /library/oar/handle/123456789/142093 Title: Midwifery education : a pathway to achieving the sustainable development goals Authors: Pace Parascandalo, Rita Abstract: Midwifery education stands at the heart of the global effort to achieve the 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This keynote highlights how investment in high-quality, competency-based midwifery education, aligned with International Confederation of Midwives (ICM) standards, is a powerful and cost-effective strategy to improve maternal and newborn outcomes and advance social and economic development. Evidence indicates that universal access to midwifery care could prevent over 4.3 million maternal and newborn deaths by 2035. Wed, 01 Jan 2025 00:00:00 GMT /library/oar/handle/123456789/142093 2025-01-01T00:00:00Z