here. - Canadian Women's Health Network

was described involved a young Aboriginalwoman who was heavily medicated withDemerol. The interviewee reported thatmedical staff were trying to give heran epidural anaesthetic, despite thefact that she was too confused by themedication to give her informed consent.The interviewees identified pre-natal clinicsas examples of successful existingprograms. It was suggested that if theopportunities were available, Aboriginalwomen would be able to take better careof themselves. For example, a concernwas expressed that few Aboriginal womenhave regular Pap smears to screen forcervical cancer. Other important healthissues in need of improved programs andservices were identified as the following:early intervention, childbearing for youngAboriginal women, Elders’ health, breastcancer and menopause.Aboriginal services in hospitals andmedical interpreters were also identified assuccessful and much-needed programs.Many women who come in from outside ofWinnipeg have language barriers thatprevent them from understanding whatmedical professionals are telling themabout their health.One woman concluded that “povertyseems to be overall the greatest detrimentto Aboriginal women.”Women, Income andHealth in Manitoba48