Calling young mums

Thursday 12 May 2005

The University of Newcastle is looking for young mothers or mothers-to-be living in the Muswellbrook area to take part in a study designed to provide feedback on existing services for pregnant women under the age of 25.

Dr Deborah Loxton from the University's Research Centre for Gender and Health says the study is funded by the National Youth Affairs Research Scheme (NYARS) through the Department of Family and Community Services.

Results will be used to make recommendations to government about the difficulties young women have experienced in accessing services for themselves and their children during and after pregnancy.

"We would like to find out about young women's experiences of pregnancy and motherhood, with a focus on the barriers young women have faced when trying to access services," says Dr Loxton.

"For example, how easy is it for young women to find prenatal health care? What is it like being a young woman in a maternity ward or birthing centre?"

"We also want to know about people's experiences with healthcare services and government services," says Dr Loxton. "Have they been able to go to school, TAFE or university? What has it been like trying to get to and use education services? What are the types of things that have made it difficult to access these and other services?"

Young women living in the Muswellbrook area who are under 25 years of age and are pregnant or have a baby, are invited to talk in confidence with Dr Loxton about their experiences.

Freecall Dr Deborah Loxton on 1800 068 081 or email deborah.loxton@newcastle.edu.au

Media contact: Dr Deborah Loxton on 1800 068 081 or email deborah.loxton@newcastle.edu.au