The relationship between maternity care and mental health for women from Africa with refugee backgrounds

Abstract

In Australia, women with a refugee background from the African continent face a unique set of challenges during the perinatal period. While postnatal depression rates are higher in women from a refugee background, few studies have provided understanding as to broader psychological distress in the perinatal period, particularly for women from Africa who may be at greater risk. There is also no evidence concerning the impact of models of maternity care on perinatal mental health for this group of women. This study provides insights into the perspectives of maternity care providers. Using a qualitative research design, this study investigated the current perinatal mental health care provision to women with a refugee background. Specifically, health care providers were interviewed regarding their experiences and thematic analysis was conducted on the data. Findings indicated a lack of consent and control for women in making decisions regarding their pregnancies, a need to provide woman- and family-centred care, and a need to understand the stressors women are likely to experience in resettlement contexts. However, it was considered by many that, with the right practical and social supports, Australian maternity care may be a psychologically protective factor.