He mana tō te mātauranga - knowledge is power: a qualitative study of sexual and reproductive healthcare experiences of wāhine Māori

Abstract

Introduction Sexual and reproductive health (SRH) is important for well-being, yet Indigenous peoples, including Māori, have poorer SRH outcomes than non-Indigenous peoples. Healthcare providers (HCPs) play a critical role in enhancing patients' health literacy, directly impacting health outcomes by providing clear, accessible information and guidance. Therefore, it is important to explore the experiences that wāhine Māori (Māori women) have when interacting with HCPs and how they learn about SRH. Such research could guide interventions to improve dissemination of SRH knowledge to Māori. Aim This study aimed to explore the experiences wāhine Māori have of sexual health care and accessing SRH knowledge. Methods Wāhine were interviewed in this Kaupapa Māori study. Interviews were transcribed and coded, and thematic analysis was performed. Results Twelve wāhine were interviewed. An overarching theme, He mana tō te mātauranga (knowledge is power), was identified. There were four subthemes: being informed about contraceptive options is empowering, informed consent is important, high-stress situations call for better communication and improved dissemination of SRH knowledge is needed. The wāhine valued being well-informed about their health and options, however, their experiences of receiving information varied. Discussion Wāhine Māori want to be told more about their health and options when encountering HCPs regarding SRH. Being informed is empowering, while feeling uninformed results in a breakdown in trust in the healthcare system and inability to exercise mana motuhake (autonomy). Facilitating improved dissemination of knowledge about SRH may help improve SRH outcomes for Māori by supporting health literacy, so that Māori can make informed decisions about their health.