GPs can support culturally safe perinatal care by asking Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women what strengthens their wellbeing, including connections to Country, culture, kinship and community.
You should offer continuity, choice of clinician, involvement of an Aboriginal health worker or practitioner, and warm referral to an Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisation, Aboriginal Maternal and Infant Health Service or Birthing on Country service where available.
Ask who they want involved and whether any cultural practices around pregnancy, birth or the placenta should be respected. Address transport, housing, food and safety alongside clinical care.
Recognise experiences of colonisation, racism and previous experiences of unsafe care may affect engagement with formal screening and do not rely on the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale alone.
Respectful, patient-led yarning can better explore strengths, concerns and social and emotional wellbeing. Continue proactive maternal and infant follow-up after birth.
Resources and support:
Support for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander parents
Supporting Best Practice in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Maternal Health
The Kimberley Mum’s Mood Scale
Aboriginal Maternal and Infant Health Services Map
Tharawal Aboriginal Corporation
This article appeared in Practice Pulse on Wednesday, 23 September 2026. If you are a GP, practice nurse or practice manager in South Western Sydney and do not get the weekly Practice Pulse email, speak to your Practice Support Officer.
