Reproductive Health Services and Needs of Refugees Women in Compounded Crises: A Qualitative Study

BHAVYA JOSHI, University of California, Berkeley
Ndola Prata, Bixby Center for Population Health and Sustainability, UC Berkeley

The United Nations Refugee Agency (UNHCR) has reported a 4000% increase in forcibly displaced individuals from 1951 to 2020. Crises and its impacts are increasing worldwide, and a growing number of populations are being impacted by multiple events - compounded crises. Populations in compounded crises face additional challenges related to accessibility, availability of services. In addition, the quality of healthcare services is compromised. Women’s reproductive health needs don't diminish during crises, it only becomes greater. The purpose of this study is to understand the facilitators and barriers to accessing reproductive health services in compounded crises settings. Our research employs qualitative methodologies, including 30 in-depth interviews with South Sudanese refugee women, 4 focus group discussions with healthcare providers, and health facility assessments across 4 locations in Kakuma, Kenya. Data will be collected in February 2024, and we hope our findings will lead to improvements in reproductive health of refugees in Kenya.