Dra. Ivone A. Lobo

Obstetrician Gynaecologist
Sub specialist in Maternal Fetal Medicine
Director of the Gynecology
& Obstetrics Unit

Multicultural aspect 

In the obstetrics and gynecology service of HPA Gambelas

HPA Magazine 20

The Obstetrics and Gynecology Service of HPA Gambelas is located in the Algarve, a region that has become one of the most multicultural societies in the country. In this territory, according to the 2021 census, there are 465,701 citizens, of which 105,142 are foreigners (22.64%).
From the 22.64% of the population that was born in another country, with their cultural, linguistic, and religious differences, leads us to adapt our provision of medical services in order to provide better assistance during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum. 

There are important considerations to make when caring for women with cultural differences from our country, such as where they were born, their preferred language for communication, and whether they need an interpreter.Effective and culturally competent communication between healthcare professionals and clients is essential in providing care during pregnancy. Some clients and clinical healthcare professionals still adhere to a model of unilateral communication, where clients hesitate to ask questions due to fear of judgment. Therefore, it is vital that healthcare professionals provide all opportunities for open communication. In obstetrics units, we must ensure that patients feel comfortable in their environment and keep all communication channels open so that honest and above all bilateral dialogue is promoted.
We should communicate in a way that makes women feel welcomed and without judgment, asking appropriate questions to ensure they understand the reasons behind certain recommendations, and also to clarify all issues in a thoughtful and open-minded manner.
Sociopsychological issues regarding pregnancy and postpartum symptoms due to early childbirth are also important.

In summary, there are 4 fundamental aspects in knowing cultural differences:

> Family dynamics
> The gender and sex of the caregiver
> Cultural and religious beliefs
> Communication.

We aim to develop checklists to understand cultural differences among women, in order to provide a positive experience during childbirth. 
These checklists will address not only general cultural differences, including family, but also differences related to pregnancy monitoring, such as genetic counseling, childbirth, and postpartum care, particularly breastfeeding.
Providing culturally competent care is essential to ensure that all mothers have a safe pregnancy. Such care should respect the beliefs and values of all clients, regardless of their race, ethnicity, identity and sexual orientation, or religion.