Exploring OP and Challenging Labours Melbourne 2026 offers an in-depth exploration of Occipital-Posterior (OP) labour, examining the challenges, cultural perspectives, and practical approaches to supporting women through this experience.

When babies present in the OP position, labour can be longer, more intense, and exhausting, often leading women to opt for epidurals as relief. However, with the right knowledge and skills, physiological birth is not only possible but empowering. Supporting women through OP labour helps reinforce their confidence in their ability to give birth while also strengthening midwives’ expertise in facilitating normal birth and reducing unnecessary interventions.

Through interactive learning and hands-on practice, this workshop provides midwives and birth workers with the tools to enhance care for women experiencing OP labour. Participants will explore movement, positioning, and other physiological techniques to support progress and comfort in labour.

Join us in Melbourne in 2026 to expand your understanding, refine your skills, and make a meaningful impact in maternity care.

Please note: We’ve made some changes to the workshops! This event covers the exact same content as the previous Supporting OP Labour workshop.

Supporting OP and Challenging Labours Melbourne 2026 – Workshop Objectives:

✔ Explore the Challenges – Understand the complexities of occipital-posterior (OP) labour and its effects on labour progression and pain management.

✔ Analyse Contemporary Practices – Examine the current medical culture and approaches to managing OP labours, including common interventions and alternatives.

✔ Review Statistics & Trends – Assess recent data and research on OP labours, their frequency, and outcomes to inform best practices.

✔ Develop Practical Strategies – Gain hands-on experience with techniques such as movement, positioning, and hands-on support to assist women through OP labour.

Learner outcomes:

By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:

✔ Critically Examine OP Labour – Explore the broader context of occipital-posterior (OP) labours, including the information provided to women and its impact on decision-making.

✔ Build a Practical Toolkit – Gather hands-on techniques and strategies to support labour and birth, helping women navigate OP labours more effectively.

✔ Enhance Communication Skills – Develop strategies for clear, supportive communication with women and colleagues to foster confidence and collaboration in managing OP labours.

Continuing Professional Development Points

CPD Endorsed hours: 3.25

Program

Download our full Exploring OP and Challenging Labours program here FULL PROGRAM PDF

Facilitator

Learn more about our facilitator Lynne Staff.

Cost

The cost of the Exploring OP and Challenging Labours is $143. The price includes morning or afternoon tea. Student and group discounts are available – contact us for details by email or phone us on (02) 9630 5357 for more information.

The Early Bird discounted ticket is $121.00. SAVE $22 when you register early! Registrations must be paid for by the 23rd of January 2026 to receive this discount.

Combine workshops to save even more.

Here are our dates for Exploring OP and Challenging Labours Workshop for 2026

Melbourne: Friday 6th March 2026
Brisbane: TBA
Sydney: TBA

Workshop numbers are limited.

If your hospital or area health service wants to sponsor a program on this topic for the benefit of you and your colleagues, please email or phone us on (02) 9630 5357 for information on how to set up in-service courses through Birth International.

This is a half-day workshop. Make it a full-day experience by signing up for Exploring Postdates Pregnancy Melbourne 2026