Identifying common conditions of pregnancy for women, including women from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, at an Australian hospital: A survey

Problem: Research that explores the prevalence and range of treatments sought for common conditions of pregnancy is limited, particularly for culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) women. Background: During pregnancy, physical and psychological conditions affect participation in the home, work place, and community. However, treatment options may be limited, particularly for CALD women. Aim: To establish the prevalence of physical and psychological conditions experienced during pregnancy, and ascertain treatments options sought by women attending a hospital in a multicultural area of Sydney (Australia), including medical, allied health and complementary medicines. Methods: A cross-sectional survey of pregnant women attending an outpatient antenatal clinic (July-December 2019). The survey was conducted in the most common language groups, English, Arabic and traditional Chinese (inclusive of Cantonese and Mandarin). Univariate and bivariate analysis was conducted. Findings: A total of 154 women participated. CALD women most frequently reported lower-back pain (41.5 %), constipation (34 %), nausea (28 %), and anxiety (7.5 %) . English-speaking women reported lower-back pain (43.5 %), difficulty sleeping (37 %), severe tiredness (35 %), and anxiety (15.8 %), and were more likely to seek treatment (p \u3c 0.01). Practitioners most consulted were massage therapists, physiotherapists, community nurses and counsellors. Doctors were least consulted overall. Conclusions: Pregnant women most commonly reported lower-back pain, however conditions were reported and treated less frequently by CALD women, including psychological conditions. It is vital that women can access hospital-based treatment for common physical and psychological conditions of pregnancy. The implication for clinicians is to establish routine asking, adequate care provision and referral to culturally safe and appropriate services

‘Leading Research from a remote community-based perspective’

In an ideal world, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are those best positioned to undertake research with Indigenous Australians, whether in rural, remote or urban community contexts. While this is not always possible, it is important that research projects should at least be designed and conducted in collaboration with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. This is to the advantage of all stakeholders, including universities and organisations that have a vested interest in envisioning a better future for Indigenous Australians. To this end, Community-based researchers play a pivotal role in working with organisations to initiate, lead and implement research projects. This includes planning, designing and delivering research. By drawing on their social, cultural and linguistic knowledge/s, CBRs are uniquely positioned to ensure local people’s voices are represented truthfully and transparently and to bring a strength-based approach to their work. This presentation will draw on a range of community-based researchers’ stories to highlight the issues, challenges, benefits and rewards of undertaking research from a both-ways approach

‘The Next Generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy!’

Invitation to attend, please RSVP [email protected] Hear an inspiring speech from Kyra Edwards (Cultural and Governance Coordinator at Walalakoo Aboriginal Corporation), listen to the beautiful tunes by Jada Hunter, create and enter a art competition for a chance to win a prize! Lunch and refreshments provided