Building respectful pregnancy care for First Nations families
22 Sep 2026
During pregnancy and the period after birth, GPs can begin by asking women what helps them feel supported and well. This may include their relationships with Country, culture, family, community and kin.
Where possible, women should have options around their healthcare provider and access to consistent care. Aboriginal health workers and practitioners can also be involved when the woman wants their support. GPs may also connect patients with Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations, Aboriginal Maternal and Infant Health Services or Birthing on Country programs available in their area.
Cultural preferences should be discussed rather than assumed. This can include asking who the woman would like involved in her care and whether there are particular customs or wishes relating to pregnancy, birth or the placenta.
Good perinatal care should also consider challenges outside the consulting room. Transport difficulties, housing, access to food and personal safety can all affect a woman’s wellbeing and ability to access healthcare.
Previous experiences of racism, colonisation or care that did not feel culturally safe may also influence how a patient approaches health services and screening. For this reason, the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale should form part of a broader assessment rather than being relied on by itself.
Taking a patient-led approach to yarning can help GPs understand what matters to each woman, including her strengths, worries and social and emotional wellbeing.
Support should not end at delivery. Regular follow-up of mothers and infants after birth can help maintain connections with care and identify ongoing support needs.
Resources:
- PANDA – Support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander parents
- Replanting the Birthing Trees
- Promoting best practice in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander maternal healthcare
- The Kimberley Mum’s Mood Scale
- Aboriginal Maternal and Infant Health Services Map
- Tharawal Aboriginal Corporation
Building respectful pregnancy care for First Nations families
Source: South Western Sydney Primary Health Network (SWS PHN)