Precarious perinatal care: experiences of incarcerated individuals in Ontario, Canada

Participants described their perinatal experiences during incarceration, providing insight into the systemic and multifaceted barriers they encountered. This study enhances understanding of the complexities surrounding perinatal care access, illustrating how administrative processes and power dynamics within carceral facilities limit timely and appropriate care. These findings can inform the development of policies, procedures, and transitional resources during incarceration and post-release. Such interventions may improve perinatal experiences and contribute to better health outcomes for incarcerated pregnant individuals and their infants. Future research should explore perinatal care from the perspective of correctional officers working with incarcerated pregnant individuals. Additionally, examining policies governing carceral health and social service provision would help inform evidence-based reforms and improve care delivery.