Opportunities for primary health care: a qualitative study of perinatal health and wellbeing during bushfire crises.

This article focuses on the experiences of perinatal women during the catastrophic 2019–2020 Australian bushfires, examining the physical and psychological health impacts of fire and smoke exposure, as well as access to health care and public health information. Through semistructured interviews with 43 pregnant women or new mothers in south-east Australia, the study found that participants faced significant health challenges including respiratory issues, increased anxiety, and stress related to evacuation and uncertainty about smoke exposure effects on their babies. Many women reported difficulty obtaining clear, evidence-based guidance from family practitioners or public health sources, highlighting a gap in communication and preparedness for this vulnerable group during climate-related disasters. The study underscores the need for targeted information and support from family health practitioners to better assist pregnant women and new mothers in future bushfire events.