The postnatal experiences of resettled Syrian refugee women: Access to healthcare and social support in Nova Scotia, Canada

Aim: The purpose of this qualitative study was to understand Syrian refugee women's perceptions and experiences of access to formal health services and informal supports during the postpartum period in Nova Scotia, Canada and to identify valued and missing services and supports in the community. Background: The postnatal period is a critical time when mothers may need access to health services (e.g., family physicians, psychologists) and informal supports (e.g., friends, family) to support their positive mental and physical health after birth. Resettled refugee women commonly encounter barriers when accessing care during the postnatal period and often have limited social supports. Methods: Semi-structured, telephone or virtual interviews were conducted with 11 resettled Syrian refugee women who gave birth in Nova Scotia, Canada within the past five years. Data were collected in the summer of 2020. This study was conducted using elements of constructivist grounded theory. Findings: Four key themes were identified from women's experiences: (i) postpartum social support was critical, but often lacking, (ii) structural barriers (e.g., irregular interpreter services, limited childcare options) impeded women's access to healthcare, (iii) paternalistic healthcare providers limited women's decision-making autonomy, and (iv) the value and need for culturally competent, integrated care (e.g., newcomer specific healthcare centres), in-home services, and family support. Conclusion: Resettled Syrian refugee women in Nova Scotia, Canada experience a range of barriers that limits their access to postnatal healthcare. Policy change, program development, and/or interventions are needed to improve access to postnatal services and supports for resettled Syrian women in Canada.