A recent study using data from the Best Start-Pregnancy Tool found that only a minority of pregnant women (29%) had engaged with a midwife prior to their first GP visit after confirmed pregnancy, although most planned for midwifery care. A total of 482 pregnant women were analysed over the period November 2020 to December 2021. Māori women were more likely to present with risk factors for maternal and perinatal health compared with non-Māori women, and also presented later in pregnancy. The study authors noted that more research is needed to identify how to best support Māori women to access a lead maternity carer early in pregnancy. The Best Start Kōwae is an accessible online tool, currently in the implementation phase, for primary care providers and lead maternity caregivers that promotes equitable health outcomes for Māori women and their infants.
