Fostering collective approaches in supporting perinatal mental healthcare access for migrant women: a participatory health research study

Perinatal mental health is a growing public health concern. The mounting evidence examining the prevalence of perinatal mental illness identifies specific vulnerabilities and risk factors among migrant women. We know that migrant women experience persistent and systematic barriers in accessing healthcare and that healthcare services do not always respond appropriately to migrant women’s needs, highlighting the need for targeted interventions in supporting positive perinatal mental health among migrant women. The purpose of this participatory health research study was to explore perinatal mental healthcare for migrant women in Ireland, from the perspectives of a diverse range of stakeholders (healthcare service providers, community organisations/networks/associations and migrant women). A key focus of this study was to collaboratively explore solution-focused approaches to improving access to supports and healthcare services for migrant women experiencing perinatal mental illness. Following ethical approval, data were collected during three key convenings, utilising the design principles of world café philosophies. Thematic analysis led to the generation of the following two themes: Building Capability and Capacity and Empowering Migrant Women. The main conclusions lie in the provision of whole-system approaches in collectively, collaboratively and proactively planning strategies that address the many factors that affect access to healthcare services for migrant women experiencing perinatal mental illness. Drawing on the collective perspectives of a wide range of stakeholders, our innovative solution focused on providing recommendations aimed at strengthening supports and healthcare services for migrant women.