Year: 2017 Source: Ottawa, ON: Statistics Canada, 2017. 16 p. SIEC No: 20170645

A systematic review and meta-analyses of birth outcomes among Indigenous women (predominantly from Canada, the United States and Australia) outlined factors associated with the higher risk: reduced access to standard prenatal care; inaccurate estimation of gestational age and subsequent complications of post-term pregnancies; pre-existing medical conditions; high rates of multiparity; young maternal age; marital status; and low educational attainment. The determinants extend beyond health behaviours and socioeconomic characteristics to include the legacy of policies that have resulted in intergenerational trauma that has affected the physical and mental health of individuals, families and communities. As well, jurisdictional responsibilities for the provision of Indigenous health services are complex and vary by region; difficulties are heightened in small and remote communities.