Experiences of Sorry Business Babies (stillbirth) among First Nations Cape York parents and communities: Insights from Elders and health professionals

PROBLEM: Stillbirth can have deep and lasting emotional, spiritual, and psychological effects on parents, families, and all those connected to birth. Although respectful, culturally appropriate care after stillbirth is critical, it often varies across settings and population groups. BACKGROUND: First Nations women in Australia continue to experience higher rates of stillbirth, particularly in remote communities. However, the unique strengths, experiences, and perspectives of these women and communities remain under-researched. AIM: To build an understanding of the lived experience of First Nations women whose baby was stillborn in Cape York by documenting the stories of First Nations Elders and health professionals who had provided care and/or support to grieving families. METHODS: Qualitative study with one-on-one or group interviews using a yarning methodology. Data were analysed via reflexive thematic analysis. FINDINGS: Thirty-three participants were engaged (health professionals=28; community members=5), most identified as First Nations and had experience of stillbirth in their own family. The findings highlighted the power of yarning in offering insights into the lived experience of stillbirth in Cape York. Identified themes were: (1) Historical and cultural context of healthcare in Cape York; (2) Ceremony, ritual, and the importance of family; (3) The language of loss; (4) The journey of grief; and (5) Providing support. DISCUSSION: Historical, cultural, interpersonal, and psychosocial factors interact to shape the experience of stillbirth among First Nations people in Cape York. CONCLUSION: Findings can inform service improvements to maximise culturally responsive care after stillbirth in Cape York and similar regions.