Culturally safe birth care cuts premature births by a third for First Nations
Up to two midwives support First Nations mothers in Bendigo from pregnancy through six weeks after birth.
Bendigo Health has launched a program called Dhelkuk Dangatuk Baring. In First Nations language, this means Healthy New Journey.
Up to two dedicated midwives support First Nations mothers from early pregnancy through to up to six weeks after birth, building personal relationships and understanding each woman's journey. The program reflects cultural values.
It also addresses barriers to maternity care. A similar Melbourne model has delivered strong results.
It led to a third fewer premature births. It led to a third fewer babies in hospital care units.
It led to a third fewer low birth weight babies. It led to nearly 50 per cent more healthy births overall.
A La Trobe University midwifery professor says women loved the model. Staff loved delivering it too.
The Bendigo program came from community yarning groups. Staff realised First Nations families didn't fit into standard Western hospital care.
- Yas Diaz-Martinez and Jasmin Sloan
- Lead midwives
- One third fewer in Melbourne trial
- Premature birth reduction
- Loddon Mallee, Victoria
- Service region
Why it mattersFirst Nations mothers need culturally safe care choices. When they get them, babies and families measurably have better health outcomes.
AustraliaVictoria now offers this evidence-based model; other regions may follow, improving care for First Nations communities.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 5 h ago
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