UPDATE: The Ngangk Maawit Mia, or Mother Baby House, has just celebrated a significant milestone, welcoming over 200 babies since its inception in 2023. This innovative Aboriginal midwifery program at King Edward Memorial Hospital ensures expectant mothers receive continuous, culturally sensitive care throughout their pregnancy.
Just last Saturday, September 2, 2023, Rhiarn Coles and her husband Rob welcomed their son, Archie John Coles, into the world—just in time for Father’s Day. Rhiarn, a Ngemba woman, had always envisioned her birthing experience shaped by her cultural heritage, echoing the positive experiences of her sister who previously utilized the same midwifery program.
“I knew as soon as we found out I was pregnant I wanted to be a part of the program. It’s less clinical and more family-oriented, with no judgment,” Ms. Coles stated. This personalized approach provides ongoing support from the same midwives, fostering a deep sense of trust and understanding.
Despite facing two emergencies during labor, Rhiarn felt reassured by her care team. “It was just an amazing birth — it was chaotic — but I wouldn’t change anything,” she reflected. The new parents had a profoundly meaningful moment as they cradled their newborn in a traditional coolamon, a hand-carved vessel symbolizing their cultural roots. Rhiarn expressed, “Cradling my son in the coolamon was a proud moment for myself and Rob.”
Ngangk Maawit Mia is led by Mel Lynch, a clinical midwife specialist and Ballardong Noongar woman, whose passion for Aboriginal healthcare has driven the program’s success. “I always had a passion for continuity of care and for Aboriginal healthcare,” Lynch explained. The program has quickly gained traction within the community, promoting health literacy and informed decision-making among mothers.
“Sometimes just listening, sitting and listening, is the best thing that you can do for somebody,” Lynch added, emphasizing the importance of emotional support during this critical time. The midwives at Ngangk Maawit Mia are dedicated to ensuring mothers understand their options, including cultural practices like taking home the placenta.
As the Coles navigate parenthood, they continue to engage with the midwives, who are always ready to answer their questions. “We genuinely feel like they care about us and our son,” Ms. Coles said, highlighting the familial bond fostered through the program.
With its commitment to culturally safe care and genuine support, Ngangk Maawit Mia is making a profound impact on the lives of Aboriginal families, ensuring that nothing about them is done without their input. As this groundbreaking initiative continues to grow, expectant mothers can look forward to personalized care that not only respects their cultural identity but also empowers them through knowledge and community support.
The success of this program marks a crucial step toward enhancing healthcare accessibility for Aboriginal women and their families. As more mothers join, Ngangk Maawit Mia aims to expand its reach and continue fostering a nurturing environment for future generations.
