TITLE:
Obstetric Care among Refugees: The Complex Interplay of Barriers to Care, Culture, Health Resources and the Healthcare Infrastructure of Host Countries
AUTHORS:
Helai Hesham, Marghalara Hesham, Annekathryn Goodman
KEYWORDS:
Refugee, Obstetrical Care, Perinatal Health, Refugee Camp, Caesarean Section, Displaced Populations
JOURNAL NAME:
Open Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology,
Vol.9 No.2,
February
11,
2019
ABSTRACT: There is a worldwide increase in the rate of caesarean sections. With
recent migration patterns and the influx of refugees into high-income
countries, migrants and refugees are also subjected to the increase in
caesarean section rates. This article explores known information about the
obstetrical experiences of refugee and displaced women. Pregnancy care varies
depending on the location of the displaced women. Obstetrical care in refugee centers
in Greece is examined as an example of the overall challenges facing European
countries as they juggle the influx of refugees. Challenges to obstetrical care
include physician shortage and the ongoing economic crisis in Greece. Refugees
are some of the world’s most vulnerable populations and overall their
obstetrical outcomes are worse than women of the host communities. Providers in
refugee centers must be supported and educated in best obstetrical practices
including labor management and a judicious use of caesarean deliveries.
Increased outreach and training of maternal health worker can improve
reproductive healthcare for refugees in non-camp environments.