University of Queensland researchers have stood in opposition to the reduction of services for pregnant women, supporting nurses in a rally at a Brisbane hospital.

Scientists and clinical researchers from the University of Queensland Centre for Mothers and Babies have joined forces with frontline staff to voice their strong discontent at measures to halve the number of full-time midwife positions on staff.

Extended research has shown plenty of benefits from having a professional midwife involved throughout pregnancy and delivery.

A recent international study showed a woman who receives care from a midwife is more likely to have a problem-free birth, have a more positive experience of labour and birth, be satisfied with her maternity care, cost the health system less and successfully breastfeed her baby.

UQ’s Centre for Mothers and Babies Director Professor Sue Kruske says the Logan Bayside Health Network Women’s and Children’s Nursing and Midwifery Services Project Implementation Plan, circulated last month, outlines planned reductions for midwives working in continuity of care models.

It will spell the end for midwifery clinics at Browns Plains, Beenleigh, Crestmead, Eagleby, Jimboomba, Logan Central, Springwood and a Saturday clinic at Logan Hospital.

Dr Kruske says the Metro South Health and Hospital Service is going against the Health Minister’s direction by cutting the services.

“Queensland Health Minister Lawrence Springborg clearly supports this evidence and has repeatedly articulated his desire for health services to improve women’s access to these models of care,” she said.

“Logan Hospital is halving its capacity from 9.5 to 4.26 full-time midwife positions while Redlands will only have one midwife allocated to midwifery group practice.”