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Steely Smith MK, Hinton-Froese KE, Scarbrough Kamath B, Virmani M, Walters A, Zielinski MJ. Characteristics and Outcomes of Women and Infants Who Received Prenatal Care While Incarcerated in Arkansas State Prison System, 2014-2019. Matern Child Health J 2024; 28:935-948. [PMID: 38177975 DOI: 10.1007/s10995-023-03875-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 01/06/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Prisons face challenges in meeting the unique health care needs of women, especially those who are pregnant. This retrospective chart review sought to describe the maternal and infant health outcomes of incarcerated women who received prenatal care while in an Arkansas prison. METHODS Using a hospital-based electronic medical records (EMR) system, we examined the maternal health history and current pregnancy characteristics of 219 pregnant women who received prenatal care while incarcerated from June 2014 to May 2019. We also examined labor and delivery characteristics and postpartum and infant birth outcomes for the 146 women from this cohort who delivered a living child while still incarcerated. RESULTS Most records indicated complex health histories with several chronic illnesses, mental health diagnoses, history of substance use, and lifetime medical complications. Despite comorbid illness, substance use disorder (SUD), trauma-history, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) prevalence was lower than expected. Previous and current obstetrical complications were common. Although the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) admission rate (41%) was high, few infants required extensive treatment intervention. Postpartum complications were rare; however, a small portion of women who gave birth in custody experienced severe complications and were re-admitted to the hospital post-discharge. CONCLUSIONS Incarcerated pregnant women and their infants are a marginalized population in great need of health care advocacy. To optimize maternal-infant outcomes, carceral agencies must recognize the health needs of incarcerated pregnant women and provide appropriate prenatal care. Expansion of carceral perinatal care to include screening for SUD and psychiatric symptoms (e.g., PTSD) and referral to appropriate care is highly encouraged. Policies related to NICU admission for non-medical reasons should be further examined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mollee K Steely Smith
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W Markham Slot 568, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | | | - Brooke Scarbrough Kamath
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W Markham Slot 568, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Misty Virmani
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W Markham Slot 568, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Ashton Walters
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W Markham Slot 568, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA
| | - Melissa J Zielinski
- University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, 4301 W Markham Slot 568, Little Rock, AR, 72205, USA.
- University of Arkansas, Fayetteville, USA.
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Bitnun A, Sauvé L, Fanella S. Reducing perinatal infection risk in newborns of mothers who received inadequate prenatal care. Paediatr Child Health 2023; 28:307-323. [PMID: 37484040 PMCID: PMC10362956 DOI: 10.1093/pch/pxad014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Inadequate prenatal care increases risk for maternal infections going undetected and untreated, putting both the mother's health and that of her infant at risk. When pregnant women present late to care, routine testing that impacts infant management should include: hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg); serology for hepatitis C virus (HCV), human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and syphilis; and testing for Chlamydia trachomatis and Neisseria gonorrhoeae. If the mother was not tested before or after delivery and is not available for testing, the infant should undergo testing for HIV, HBV, HCV, and syphilis. Testing for C. trachomatis and N. gonorrhoeae should be undertaken if the infant develops compatible clinical manifestations. Rapid turnaround of test results for HIV, HBV, and syphilis is optimal because preventive treatment decisions are time-sensitive. Early and effective preventive interventions are available for newborns at risk for HIV, HBV, syphilis, or gonorrhea. Close clinical follow-up and follow-up testing of infants born to mothers with inadequate prenatal care are warranted, as not all infections can be fully excluded perinatally.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ari Bitnun
- Canadian Paediatric Society, Infectious Diseases and Immunization Committee, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Laura Sauvé
- Canadian Paediatric Society, Infectious Diseases and Immunization Committee, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sergio Fanella
- Canadian Paediatric Society, Infectious Diseases and Immunization Committee, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
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Bitnun A, Sauvé L, Fanella S. La réduction du risque d'infection périnatale chez les nouveau-nés de mères dont les soins prénatals étaient inappropriés. Paediatr Child Health 2023; 28:307-323. [PMID: 37484035 PMCID: PMC10362960 DOI: 10.1093/pch/pxad015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Accepted: 11/23/2022] [Indexed: 07/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Le risque que des infections maternelles ne soient ni décelées ni traitées augmente lorsque les soins prénatals sont inappropriés, ce qui met la santé de la mère et de son nouveau-né à risque. Lorsqu'une femme enceinte se présente tardivement pour recevoir des soins, les tests systématiques qui influent sur la prise en charge du nouveau-né devraient inclure l'antigène de surface de l'hépatite B (AgHBs), la sérologie du virus de l'hépatite C (VHC), du virus de l'immunodéficience humaine (VIH) et de la syphilis, de même que le dépistage de la Chlamydia trachomatis et de la Neisseria gonorrhoeae. Si la mère ne s'est pas soumise aux dépistages avant ou après l'accouchement et qu'elle n'est pas disponible pour s'y soumettre, il faudrait procéder au dépistage du VIH, du virus de l'hépatite B (VHB), du VHC et de la syphilis chez le nouveau-né. Le dépistage de la C. trachomatis et de la N. gonorrhoeae est toutefois réservé aux cas où le nouveau-né démontre des manifestations cliniques compatibles avec ces infections. Il est optimal d'obtenir rapidement les résultats du dépistage du VIH, du VHB et de la syphilis, car l'utilisation des traitements préventifs est circonscrite dans le temps. Il existe des interventions préventives précoces et efficaces pour les nouveau-nés à risque de VIH, de VHB, de syphilis ou de gonorrhée. Un suivi clinique étroit et des tests de suivi s'imposent auprès des nouveau-nés de mères dont les soins prénatals étaient inappropriés, car il est impossible d'exclure pleinement toutes les infections pendant la période périnatale.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ari Bitnun
- Société canadienne de pédiatrie, comité des maladies infectieuses et d'immunisation, Ottawa (Ontario)Canada
| | - Laura Sauvé
- Société canadienne de pédiatrie, comité des maladies infectieuses et d'immunisation, Ottawa (Ontario)Canada
| | - Sergio Fanella
- Société canadienne de pédiatrie, comité des maladies infectieuses et d'immunisation, Ottawa (Ontario)Canada
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Farhoudi B, Shahmohamadi E, SeyedAlinaghi S, Rostam Afshar Z, Mirzapour P, Nadji S, Golsoorat Pahlaviani F, Tashakorian M, Hackett D. Sexual and reproductive history of female prisoners in Iran: a health care needs analysis. Int J Prison Health 2023; 19:591-598. [PMID: 37143342 DOI: 10.1108/ijph-12-2022-0076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE According to estimates, there are approximately 714,000 female prisoners in the world. A considerable proportion are pregnant, of childbearing age at the time of incarceration and may experience numerous reproductive health concerns. The purpose of this study is to examine the demographics and sexual and reproductive history of female prisoners in Iran. DESIGN/METHODOLOGY/APPROACH Four hundred and thirty-four female prisoners (mean age: 39.0 ± 9.9) serving sentences at Qarchak prison, Iran, completed a questionnaire. The participants were recruited between October 2017 and September 2018 using a convenient sampling method. The questionnaire captured sociodemographic characteristics and sexual and reproductive history. FINDINGS Most respondents had 7-12 years of formal education, were housewives (69.9%), were either married (41.6%) or divorced (41.8%) and were literate (91.3%). History of drug use among the respondents was 34.7%. Most respondents had regular menstruation (63.5%) and were pre-menopausal (86.1%). Natural birth control was preferred (39.7%) compared to other methods, such as condoms (18%) and oral contraceptive pills (8.4%). Spontaneous and induced abortions were reported by 17.8% and 16.4% of respondents, respectively. There was 5.9% of respondents that reported having a history of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) before incarceration, with HPV the most common (12.7%). RESEARCH LIMITATIONS/IMPLICATIONS This study has limitations, including the problem of following up with prisoners to shorten the average length of their imprisonment, which can leave many issues in the field of women's health and their follow-up incomplete. Prison health care workers should also follow up on women's health and pregnancy hygiene after their release because there is usually a high prevalence of STIs in prisoners. PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS The findings highlight the importance of improving the quality of women's health care and pregnancy-related care in prisons. Additionally, the importance of having a health protocol for incarcerated women in Iran. Other programs should also be implemented for women prisoners to eliminate the discrimination they may face in prison. ORIGINALITY/VALUE The international community has attempted to develop care guidelines for pregnant prisoners, particularly for prenatal and mental health services. However, currently in Iran no such guidelines have been developed. To date no research has explored the sexual health among female prisoners of this country. The aim of the present study was to examine the demographics and sexual and reproductive history of female prisoners in Iran. A secondary aim was to identify the health care needs of female prisoners in Iran.
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Affiliation(s)
- Behnam Farhoudi
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Amiralmomenin Hospital, Tehran Medical Sciences, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Elnaz Shahmohamadi
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS, Iranian Institute for Reduction of High-Risk Behaviors, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - SeyedAhmad SeyedAlinaghi
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS, Iranian Institute for Reduction of High-Risk Behaviors, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zohreh Rostam Afshar
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS, Iranian Institute for Reduction of High-Risk Behaviors, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Pegah Mirzapour
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS, Iranian Institute for Reduction of High-Risk Behaviors, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - SeyedAlireza Nadji
- Virology Research Center, National Institutes of Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Golsoorat Pahlaviani
- Iranian Research Center for HIV/AIDS, Iranian Institute for Reduction of High-Risk Behaviors, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mehrzad Tashakorian
- Health and Treatment Directorate of Prisons and Security and Corrective Measures Organization, Tehran, Iran
| | - Daniel Hackett
- Physical Activity, Lifestyle, Ageing and Wellbeing Faculty Research Group, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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McLeod LJ, McLeod KE, Liauw J, Ramirez AC, Coll-Black M, Kouyoumdjian FG. Antenatal obstetrician care among people who experience incarceration in Ontario: A retrospective cohort study. JOURNAL OF OBSTETRICS AND GYNAECOLOGY CANADA 2023; 45:327-328. [PMID: 36871893 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogc.2023.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/15/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Jane McLeod
- University of Toronto, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Toronto, ON.
| | | | - Jessica Liauw
- University of British Columbia, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Vancouver, BC
| | | | - Mary Coll-Black
- McMaster University, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hamilton, ON
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Hessami K, Hutchinson-Colas JA, Chervenak FA, Shamshirsaz AA, Zargarzadeh N, Norooznezhad AH, Grünebaum A, Bachmann GA. Prenatal care and pregnancy outcome among incarcerated pregnant individuals in the United States: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Perinat Med 2022:jpm-2022-0412. [PMID: 36394545 DOI: 10.1515/jpm-2022-0412] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
This systematic review and meta-analysis assessed the risk of inadequate prenatal care and pregnancy outcome among incarcerated pregnant individuals in the United States. PubMed/MedLine, Embase, ClinicalTrials.gov and Web of Science were searched from inception up to March 30th, 2022. Studies were included if they reported the risk of inadequate prenatal care and/or pregnancy outcomes among incarcerated pregnant individuals in the United States jails or prisons. Adequacy of prenatal care was quantified by Kessner index. The random-effects model was used to pool the mean differences or odds ratios (OR) and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) using RevMan software. Nine studies were included in the final review. A total of 11,534 pregnant individuals, of whom 2,544 were incarcerated while pregnant, and 8,990 who were matched non-incarcerated pregnant individuals serving as control group, were utilized. Compared to non-incarcerated pregnancies, incarcerated pregnant individuals were at higher risk of inadequate prenatal care (OR 2.99 [95% CI: 1.60, 5.61], p<0.001) and were more likely to have newborns with low birthweight (OR 1.66 [95% CI: 1.19, 2.32], p=0.003). There was no significant difference between incarcerated and matched control pregnancies in the rates of preterm birth and stillbirth. The findings of the current systematic review and meta-analysis suggest that incarcerated pregnant individuals have an increased risk of inadequate prenatal care. Considering the limited number of current studies, further research is indicated to both assess whether the risk of inadequate prenatal care has negative impact on prenatal outcomes for this population and to determine the steps that can be taken to enhance prenatal care for all pregnant individuals incarcerated in the United States prisons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kamran Hessami
- Maternal Fetal Care Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Juana A Hutchinson-Colas
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women's Health Institute, Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Frank A Chervenak
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Lenox Hill Hospital, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alireza A Shamshirsaz
- Maternal Fetal Care Center, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nikan Zargarzadeh
- Maternal Fetal and Neonatal Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Amos Grünebaum
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Lenox Hill Hospital, New York, NY, USA
| | - Gloria A Bachmann
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Women's Health Institute, Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
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Sapkota D, Dennison S, Allen J, Gamble J, Williams C, Malope-Rwodzi N, Baar L, Ransley J, Renae McGee T. Navigating pregnancy and early motherhood in prison: a thematic analysis of mothers' experiences. HEALTH & JUSTICE 2022; 10:32. [PMID: 36308566 PMCID: PMC9617046 DOI: 10.1186/s40352-022-00196-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Maternal imprisonment negatively impacts mothers and their children and is likely to have lifelong and intergenerational sequelae. In many jurisdictions nationally and internationally, young children (usually those less than 5 years) can reside with their mothers in prison. However, there is considerable debate regarding the impact of prison environments on incarcerated mothers and their children who are born, and/or raised in prison. Research to date on the pregnancy and mothering experiences of imprisoned mothers and their preferences for care arrangements for their babies and young children is limited. METHODS This study was part of the Transforming Corrections to Transform Lives project, in which workshops were conducted with imprisoned mothers to understand their needs while in custody and post-release, and the kind of supports and system changes that are required to meet those needs. Incarcerated mothers (n = 75) participated in seven workshops conducted across four Queensland prisons. Themes were generated through reflexive thematic analysis. RESULTS Three themes characterised mothers' experiences of being pregnant and undertaking a mothering role of a young child while in prison. First, for most mothers, imprisonment adds vulnerability and isolation during pregnancy and childbirth. Second, although mothers felt that residing together with their children in prison motivated them to change for a better future, they were concerned about the potential negative impact of the prison environment on the child's development. Lastly, most mothers voiced losing autonomy and agency to practice motherhood independently within custodial settings. Mothers expressed a need for the correctional system to be adapted, so it is better equipped to address the unique and additional needs of mothers with young children. CONCLUSION Mothers' experiences indicated that the correctional system and policies, which were predominantly designed for men, do not adequately address the varied and complex needs of pregnant women, mothers, and their young children. Imprisonment of pregnant women and mothers with young children should be the last resort, and they should be provided with holistic, individually tailored support, most preferably in community settings, to address their multiple intersecting needs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diksha Sapkota
- Griffith Criminology Institute, Griffith University Mount Gravatt Campus, 176 Messines Ridge Road, Mount Gravatt, Qld, Australia.
| | - Susan Dennison
- Griffith Criminology Institute, Griffith University Mount Gravatt Campus, 176 Messines Ridge Road, Mount Gravatt, Qld, Australia
| | - Jyai Allen
- Transforming Maternity Care Collaborative, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Griffith University, Nathan, Australia
| | - Jenny Gamble
- Transforming Maternity Care Collaborative, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Griffith University, Nathan, Australia
- Coventry University, Priory St, Coventry, UK
| | - Corrie Williams
- Griffith Criminology Institute, Griffith University Mount Gravatt Campus, 176 Messines Ridge Road, Mount Gravatt, Qld, Australia
| | - Nomxolisi Malope-Rwodzi
- Griffith Criminology Institute, Griffith University Mount Gravatt Campus, 176 Messines Ridge Road, Mount Gravatt, Qld, Australia
| | - Laura Baar
- Griffith Criminology Institute, Griffith University Mount Gravatt Campus, 176 Messines Ridge Road, Mount Gravatt, Qld, Australia
| | - Janet Ransley
- Griffith Criminology Institute, Griffith University Mount Gravatt Campus, 176 Messines Ridge Road, Mount Gravatt, Qld, Australia
| | - Tara Renae McGee
- Griffith Criminology Institute, Griffith University Mount Gravatt Campus, 176 Messines Ridge Road, Mount Gravatt, Qld, Australia
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Paynter M, Heggie C, Low C, McKibbon S, Martin-Misener R. Community-based models of health care for women, trans and nonbinary people released from prisons: An international scoping review with implications for Canada. J Clin Nurs 2022. [PMID: 35941807 DOI: 10.1111/jocn.16464] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
AIMS AND OBJECTIVES To illustrate the scope of different types of transitional, community-based health interventions for formerly incarcerated women, trans and nonbinary people, the eligibility criteria for these interventions, and associated health outcomes. BACKGROUND Meeting the health needs of formerly incarcerated people in community, rather than through the criminal justice system, may prevent further experiences of criminalization. Research is needed to understand what community-based health interventions have been implemented internationally to inform the design of an intervention in Canada. DESIGN Scoping review using the Joanna Briggs Institute scoping review methodology. METHODS In consultation with a medical research librarian, key databases and journals were searched for English language articles, from any country, with no specified date range. Three authors independently screened titles and abstracts to identify articles for full-text review. The study adheres to PRISMA-EQUATOR guidelines. RESULTS Thirty-six studies met the present criteria and were reviewed in full text. Method, setting, participants, sample, relevant outcomes and relevant findings were extracted from each study for synthesis. Included studies had varied methods and were published from 1999 to 2020. Thirty-one studies were based in the United States, one in Puerto Rico and two each in Canada and the United Kingdom. The most common health issue focus was human immunodeficiency virus and/or hepatitis c virus. The most common outcome was uptake of offered services, such as a transitional clinic. CONCLUSIONS Gaps in the research pertain to a lack of attention to clinical outcomes and patient experience, and a lack of consideration of sexual and reproductive health concerns. Women were the minority population in all studies that included both men and women; transgender participants were mentioned in only four of thirty-six studies. The specific needs of women, trans and nonbinary people must be taken into consideration. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE Nurses must be conscious of the elevated health risks associated with exposure to correctional institutions and the risks associated with the period of transition. PATIENT OR PUBLIC CONTRIBUTION A member of the research team brings lived experience expertise with respect to the criminal justice system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martha Paynter
- Faculty of Nursing, University of New Brunswick, Fredericton, Canada
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Kirubarajan A, Tsang J, Dong S, Hui J, Sreeram P, Mohmand Z, Leung S, Ceccacci A, Sobel M. Pregnancy and childbirth during incarceration: A qualitative systematic review of lived experiences. BJOG 2022; 129:1460-1472. [PMID: 35274810 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.17137] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2021] [Revised: 02/22/2022] [Accepted: 02/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Incarcerated individuals who experience pregnancy or childbirth in correctional facilities face unique considerations for obstetric care and consequently are at greater risk of adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. OBJECTIVES To characterise patient experiences regarding pregnancy and childbirth during incarceration via qualitative synthesis. SEARCH STRATEGY Medline-OVID, EMBASE, CINAHL, Sociological Abstracts, Social Work Abstracts, Web of Science, Scopus and PsycInfo were systematically searched from inception to 24 December 2020. Supplementary searches were performed using the Scopus database. SELECTION CRITERIA Only original, peer-reviewed literature was examined. Eligible studies were assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal Checklist for Qualitative Research. RESULTS After screening 4173 original database citations, 24 studies that met inclusion criteria were included and analysed via thematic analysis. The 24 studies included perspectives from 645 female patients who had experienced incarceration, 69 healthcare providers and 70 prison staff. Key patient-reported concerns for the well-being of pregnant individuals during incarceration included mental health challenges, dehumanisation of prenatal care and delivery, lack of privacy, stigma, psychological trauma, lack of emotional support and shackle usage during pregnancy and/or labour. The studies reported a lack of support for patients to access female correctional officers or guards, privacy during intimate examinations, timely medical care and support for breastfeeding. Above all, the psychological trauma of separation from one's newborn after birth was of utmost devastation. CONCLUSIONS Our systematic review highlights the dire need for accountability and interventions to improve pregnancy and childbirth care for incarcerated individuals. TWEETABLE ABSTRACT This systematic review describes lived experiences of pregnancy & childbirth during incarceration, including dehumanisation, psychological trauma, and use of shackles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abirami Kirubarajan
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Institute of Health Policy Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jackie Tsang
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Susan Dong
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jeanette Hui
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Padmaja Sreeram
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.,Institute of Health Policy Management and Evaluation, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Zuhal Mohmand
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Shannon Leung
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Mara Sobel
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Sinai Health System, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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10
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Lived experiences of pregnancy and prison through a reproductive justice lens: A qualitative meta-synthesis. Soc Sci Med 2022; 307:115179. [DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2022.115179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Liauw J, Jurgutis J, Nouvet E, Dineley B, Kearney H, Reaka N, Fitzpatrick-Lewis D, Peirson L, Kouyoumdjian F. Reproductive healthcare in prison: A qualitative study of women's experiences and perspectives in Ontario, Canada. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0251853. [PMID: 34003876 PMCID: PMC8130921 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0251853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore women's experiences and perspectives of reproductive healthcare in prison. METHODS We conducted a qualitative study using semi-structured focus groups in 2018 with women in a provincial prison in Ontario, Canada. We asked participants about their experiences and perspectives of pregnancy and contraception related to healthcare in prison. We used a combination of deductive and inductive content analysis to categorize data. A concept map was generated using a reproductive justice framework. RESULTS The data reflected three components of a reproductive justice framework: 1) women have limited access to healthcare in prison, 2) reproductive safety and dignity influence attitudes toward pregnancy and contraception, and 3) women in prison want better reproductive healthcare. Discrimination and stigma were commonly invoked throughout women's experiences in seeking reproductive healthcare. CONCLUSIONS Improving reproductive healthcare for women in prison is crucial to promoting reproductive justice in this population. Efforts to increase access to comprehensive, responsive, and timely reproductive healthcare should be informed by the needs and desires of women in prison and should actively seek to reduce their experience of discrimination and stigma in this context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jessica Liauw
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Jessica Jurgutis
- Department of Indigenous Learning, Lakehead University, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Women’s Studies, Lakehead University, Ontario, Canada
| | - Elysée Nouvet
- School of Health Studies, University of Western Ontario, Ontario, Canada
| | - Brigid Dineley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Hannah Kearney
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, McMaster University, Ontario, Canada
| | - Naomi Reaka
- Faculty of Health Sciences, School of Medicine, McMaster University, Ontario, Canada
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12
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Paynter M, Heggie C, McKibbon S, Martin-Misener R, Iftene A, Murphy GT. Sexual and Reproductive Health Outcomes among Incarcerated Women in Canada: A Scoping Review. Can J Nurs Res 2021; 54:72-86. [PMID: 33508956 DOI: 10.1177/0844562120985988] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women are the fastest growing population in Canadian prisons. Incarceration can limit access to essential health services, increase health risks and disrupt treatment and supports. Despite legal requirements to provide care at professionally accepted standards, evidence suggests imprisonment undermines sexual and reproductive health. This scoping review asks, "What is known about the sexual and reproductive health of people incarcerated in prisons for women in Canada?" METHODS We use the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for systematic scoping reviews. Databases searched include MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Gender Studies Abstracts, Google Scholar and Proquest Dissertations and grey literature. The search yielded 1424 titles and abstracts of which 15 met the criteria for inclusion. RESULTS Conducted from 1994-2020, in provincial facilities in Ontario, British Columbia, Alberta and Quebec as well as federal prisons, the 15 studies included qualitative, quantitative and mixed methods. The most common outcomes of interest were related to HIV. Other outcomes studied included Papanicolaou (Pap) and sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing, contraception, pregnancy, birth/neonatal outcomes, and sexual assault. CONCLUSION Incarceration results in lack of access to basic services including contraception and prenatal care. Legal obligations to provide sexual and reproductive health services at professionally acceptable standards appear unmet. Incarceration impedes rights of incarcerated people to sexual and reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martha Paynter
- School of Nursing, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada.,School of Health and Human Performance, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | - Clare Heggie
- School of Health and Human Performance, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, Canada
| | | | | | - Adelina Iftene
- Health Law Institute, Schulich School of Law, Halifax, NS, Canada
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Paynter MJ, Bagg ML, Heggie C. Invisible women: correctional facilities for women across Canada and proximity to maternity services. Int J Prison Health 2020. [DOI: 10.1108/ijph-06-2020-0039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to describe the process to create an inventory of the facilities in Canada designated to incarcerate women and girls, health service responsibility by facility, facility proximity to hospitals with maternity services and residential programmes for mothers and children to stay together. This paper creates the inventory to support health researchers, prison rights advocates and policymakers to identify, analyse and respond to sex and gender differences in health and access to health services in prisons.
Design/methodology/approach
In spring 2019, this study conducted an environmental scan to create an inventory of every facility in Canada designated for the incarceration of girls and women, including remand/pretrial custody, immigration detention, youth facilities and for provincial and federal sentences.
Findings
There are 72 facilities in the inventory. In most, women are co-located with men. Responsibility for health varies by jurisdiction. Few sites have mother-child programmes. Distance to maternity services varies from 1 to 132 km.
Research limitations/implications
This paper did not include police lock-up, courthouse cells or involuntary psychiatric units in the inventory. Information is unavailable regarding trans and non-binary persons, a priority for future work. Access to maternity hospital services is but one critical question regarding reproductive care. Maintenance of the database is challenging.
Originality/value
Incarcerated women are an invisible population. The inventory is the first of its kind and is a useful tool to support sex and gender and health research across jurisdictions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Knittel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
| | - Carolyn Sufrin
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
- Department of Health, Behavior, and Society, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, Baltimore, Maryland
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