Migration and Maternity: Insights of Context, Health Policy, and Research Evidence on Experiences and Outcomes From a Three Country Preliminary Study Across Germany, Canada, and the United Kingdom

Abstract

A group from Germany, Canada, and the United Kingdom undertook country-specific scoping reviews and stakeholder consultations before joining to holistically compare migration and maternity in all three countries. We examined four interlinking dimensions to understand how international migrant/minority maternal health might be improved upon using transnational research: (a) wider sociopolitical context, (b) health policy arena, (c) constellation, outcomes, and experiences of maternity services, and (d) existing research contexts. There was clear evidence that the constellation and delivery of services may undermine good experiences and outcomes. Interventions to improve access and quality of care remain small scale, short term, and lacking in rigorous evaluation.

Acknowledgments

The authors thank the Volkswagen Stiftung Foundation, Germany, for funding this preliminary work (data collection) in 2008 through their program Study Groups on Migration and Health. During the more recent preparation of this article, G.H. is supported by a Canada Research Chair in Ethnicity and Health (see http://www.chairs-chaires.gc.ca/home-accueil-eng.aspx). Neither funding agency assisted with the design, data collection, analysis, or interpretation of the findings, or the writing of the article.