YOUR COLLEGE

Women, Reproductive Health and Cultural Diversity in Aotearoa NZ Symposium

Researchers from the University of Auckland held a multidisciplinary symposium in July to present the findings from their HRC-funded research programme, with attendance by College representatives.

The purpose of the day was to initiate an in-depth conversation around reproductive and sexual health issues that impact particularly on Asian and Ethnic Minority (A/EM) women in New Zealand. Sessions were focused on community, policy and data, with presentations followed by group workshop discussions. The researchers framed the day around the following questions: • How do cultural values impact on reproductive health for women and men in A/EM communities?

• What are the implications of NZ’s 2020 abortion reform for

A/EM communities?

• What are the data needs, gaps and challenges in order to understand reproductive practices among A/EM women?

• A detailed meeting report and considerations for actions will be communicated to members in due course. square

STI WEBINAR SERIES AND GUIDELINE

In June, the College hosted a three-part sexual health update webinar series on STI screening, diagnosis, treatment and referral in primary care.

The webinars were very well attended and we have received positive feedback, including requests to offer future education updates via webinar.

Midwives are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the Aotearoa New Zealand STI Management Guidelines for use in Primary Care. Go to sti.guidelines.org.nz for practice guidance for each STI, as well as great information on taking a sexual history, recommended tests when a sexual health check is needed, partner notification and contact tracing.

The webinar recordings will be made available on the College’s new e-learning platform when it is launched this year. square

Changes at national office

Jacqui Anderson has retired and left the College at the end of August. A great loss to the College, Jacqui was a founding member and has held many roles in midwifery throughout her career. Her depth of knowledge and experience will be missed.

Kate Clark, MFYP administrator finished at the end of July for a new career opportunity after eight years. Geri Nolan has commenced in this role as Kate's replacement.

A new front office administrator, Fiona Ruddenklau, has been employed to replace Kerry Blackwood, who has also retired after 14 years at the College.

We wish you all well in your future endeavours and thank you for many years of service and wonderful shared memories. Ngā mihi aroha ki a koutou katoa. square

Jacqui Anderson has retired and left the College at the end of August. A great loss to the College, Jacqui was a founding member and has held many roles in midwifery throughout her career. Her depth of knowledge and experience will be missed.