05/05/2026
⭐ Working to improve the experience for pregnant women with cancer ⭐
Michelle McNish is the Trust’s Lead Midwife for Maternal Medicine and works closely with specialties to improve the experience and outcomes for pregnant women diagnosed with cancer.
This International Day of the Midwife, we’re highlighting how the role of midwives goes far beyond delivering babies — supporting people with a wide range of conditions, backgrounds and complex needs.
Sadly, more women are being diagnosed with cancer during pregnancy, and Michelle is working alongside oncology teams to bring together tailored support for midwives, clinicians and patients.
This work aims to improve understanding, coordination of care and the overall experience for women at an incredibly challenging time. Michelle said: “After a lady has finished her oncology treatment, I’ll often meet her and have a listen to baby's heartbeat or organise a scan for reassurance. It offers reassurance, but it also means she leaves with a positive moment and a happy memory alongside what can otherwise be a very difficult experience.
“We are still developing guidelines and working with specialists across the region. For me, it doesn’t matter where you live — everyone deserves the right care, in the right place, at the right time.”
Alongside supporting women diagnosed with cancer during pregnancy, Michelle also cares for women with other high‑risk conditions, including diabetes, epilepsy, liver problems and cardiac conditions. She explained: “I work as part of a full multidisciplinary team to create a personalised care plan for each woman. That means making sure they’re on the right pathway, receiving the appropriate scans, and getting the extra advice and support they need based on their condition.”
