Presentation Information
[FPoIQwB5-11]Factors influencing the utilization of sexual and reproductive health services among im/migrant women
*Kozue Yamauchi1 (1. Otemae University (Japan))
Keywords:
Im/migrant women,Sexual and reproductive health,Self-determination
[Purpose]
To identify the factors that influence the utilization of SRH services.
[Method]
Searches were conducted in PubMed and CINAHL on June 19–20, 2025. Controlled vocabulary was used when available and supplemented with free-text keywords related to immigration, international students, pregnancy, abortion, and self-determination. Inclusion criteria included papers that addressed im/migrant women, self-determination in the context of sexual and reproductive health, or factors influencing self-determination. Exclusion criteria included refugees, undocumented immigrants, detained immigrants, immigrants in transit, domestic migrants, papers focusing on reproductive coercion or abuse, and review articles.
[Results]
A total of 21 studies met the inclusion criteria. The review revealed that im/migrant women's SRH decision-making is shaped by multiple intersecting factors. Gender norms, such as expectations to become mothers and male-dominated decision-making, limited women's autonomy. Lack of partner support, domestic violence, and relationship breakdown were associated with unintended pregnancies and abortions. Cultural and religious beliefs, and family pressure to conceive soon after marriage, made contraception and abortion difficult. Additional barriers included economic hardship, lack of health insurance, limited knowledge of SRH services and laws, and poor understanding of public health systems. Many women had not received sexuality education, held myths or misconceptions, and experienced shame or cultural silence around pregnancy and contraception. Fear of job loss, deportation, and legal insecurity further discouraged help-seeking. Isolation, emotional distress, and dependence on partners or healthcare providers were also reported. These factors collectively undermined informed and autonomous SRH decision-making.
[Consideration]
Structural, cultural, and gendered factors constrain im/migrant women’s reproductive choices and access to care.
[Conclusion]
Multilevel barriers must be addressed to ensure informed SRH choices.
To identify the factors that influence the utilization of SRH services.
[Method]
Searches were conducted in PubMed and CINAHL on June 19–20, 2025. Controlled vocabulary was used when available and supplemented with free-text keywords related to immigration, international students, pregnancy, abortion, and self-determination. Inclusion criteria included papers that addressed im/migrant women, self-determination in the context of sexual and reproductive health, or factors influencing self-determination. Exclusion criteria included refugees, undocumented immigrants, detained immigrants, immigrants in transit, domestic migrants, papers focusing on reproductive coercion or abuse, and review articles.
[Results]
A total of 21 studies met the inclusion criteria. The review revealed that im/migrant women's SRH decision-making is shaped by multiple intersecting factors. Gender norms, such as expectations to become mothers and male-dominated decision-making, limited women's autonomy. Lack of partner support, domestic violence, and relationship breakdown were associated with unintended pregnancies and abortions. Cultural and religious beliefs, and family pressure to conceive soon after marriage, made contraception and abortion difficult. Additional barriers included economic hardship, lack of health insurance, limited knowledge of SRH services and laws, and poor understanding of public health systems. Many women had not received sexuality education, held myths or misconceptions, and experienced shame or cultural silence around pregnancy and contraception. Fear of job loss, deportation, and legal insecurity further discouraged help-seeking. Isolation, emotional distress, and dependence on partners or healthcare providers were also reported. These factors collectively undermined informed and autonomous SRH decision-making.
[Consideration]
Structural, cultural, and gendered factors constrain im/migrant women’s reproductive choices and access to care.
[Conclusion]
Multilevel barriers must be addressed to ensure informed SRH choices.
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