Foundational features of indigenous pregnancy care: Lessons learned from indigenous pregnancy care providers

Indigenous populations experience higher odds of poor maternal and infant health outcomes than non-Hispanic White mothers yet have lower odds of receiving adequate prenatal care.

Many Indigenous communities rely on modern Western medical institutions to provide pregnancy related health care. These systems were not developed with or for Indigenous communities and often fail to meet the needs of Indigenous pregnant patients. Offering culturally congruent models of care may increase prenatal care utilization.

This paper used qualitative inquiry to identify Indigenous approaches to caring for pregnancy.

Our team conducted 16 semi-structured individual interviews and one group interview with a total of 19 respondents. To arrive at thematic categories, the research team engaged in a modified pile sorting technique. The final set of categories, along with sub-themes, descriptions and example quotes, were sent to interviewees for approval.

Ten Foundational Features of Indigenous Pregnancy Care were identified. These covered themes related to Indigenous cultural practices, relationships, Indigenous sovereignty, local Indigenous community, full spectrum care, wholistic care, birthing person's wisdom, power and autonomy, flexibility, historical trauma, and cultural awareness.

Modern midwifery care delivered by Indigenous practitioners may partially bridge the cultural gap; however, intentional effort is needed to integrate Indigenous ways into medical doctor practice models and facilities.

This paper identifies ten foundational features of Indigenous pregnancy care and demonstrates the importance of recognizing the effects of trauma and providing opportunities for healing, upholding sovereignty, and centering relationships when caring for Indigenous pregnancies.