320 Perinatal health inequalities and migration: experiences, barriers and support for women in precarious circumstances in Canada

Abstract WKS 26: Perinatal Health Inequalities and Migration: Experiences, Barriers and Support for Women in Precarious Circumstances in Canada, B309 (FCSH), September 5, 2025, 09:00 - 10:00 Rationale and Purpose In Canada, childbearing im/migrant women may face increased vulnerability due to a precarious migration status (asylum seekers, temporary workers, undocumented), cultural and linguistic barriers, or due to challenging socioeconomic conditions. Some have also experienced traumatic migration trajectories, contributing to complex and often unmet health needs. Im/migrant women frequently encounter difficulties when accessing perinatal care, including systemic obstacles within the healthcare system. Drawing from various research studies, this workshop examined the distinct perinatal health and care challenges experienced by im/migrant women in vulnerable circumstances in Québec, Canada and engaged participants in a discussion on actionable strategies aimed at reducing inequalities and promoting health and wellbeing throughout pregnancy, childbirth and postpartum. Workshop The first part of the workshop focused on uninsured migrant women, critically examining the repercussions of pregnancy without legal status, including restricted access to care, significant financial hardship, and adverse effects on family relationships and education/professional aspirations. Key policy recommendations aimed at mitigating these inequities, were also addressed. The second half examined the perinatal care experiences of recently arrived migrant women from non-Western countries, emphasizing their perceptions of healthcare providers, access to prenatal care, and encounters with communication facilitation and responsive care. Associations between key socioeconomic and migratory determinants and specific aspects of maternity care, were also presented. Learning Outcomes