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RESEARCH PROJECT:
Understanding Aboriginal men’s involvement in antenatal care for stillbirth prevention
The loss of a baby to stillbirth is a profoundly tragic event that affects parents, families and communities. Our own research in Western Australia has shown that stillbirth rates among Aboriginal people are two to three times higher than among non-Aboriginal populations.
The reasons for this disparity are complex and multifaceted, including differential access to culturally safe antenatal care. There is a critical need to generate evidence that supports the development of Aboriginal-specific stillbirth education and awareness initiatives, including those that target Aboriginal men. The role of men in supporting the wellbeing of pregnant women and newborn health should not be underestimated, with a growing body of research highlighting strong associations between low paternal support and adverse birth outcomes.
Despite the recognised and widespread benefits of timely and appropriate antenatal care, there remains a drastic shortage of culturally safe antenatal care interventions that include Aboriginal men. This project represents the first step toward our broader vision of supporting the capacity of Aboriginal men to improve maternal and newborn health. This vision addresses concerns raised by our Elder network and community partners.