Access to Care for Women from Ethnic Minority and Migrant Groups
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Reproductive Borders and Bordering Reproduction: Access to Care for Women from Ethnic Minority and Migrant Groups
IRAS ID
335121
Contact name
Ulla McKnight
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Sussex
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
This study will explore the experiences of women, people who may become pregnant, and NHS/British Pregnancy Advisory Service (BPAS) staff during key reproductive moments, focusing on how ethnic minority and migrant people are disproportionately affected by poor health outcomes. Using ethnographic methods, we aim to understand real-life challenges in accessing care.This research is part of a larger project funded by the AHRC, led by Queen Mary University of London. The wider project includes NHS and non-NHS research, along with legal, ethical, and policy analysis to inform better healthcare practices.
Studies show major disparities in maternal mortality, with Black African/Caribbean and South Asian (especially Pakistani and Bangladeshi) women facing significantly higher risks compared to White women. Migration status adds further barriers, limiting access to NHS and BPAS services and, in some cases, leading to immigration control measures.Existing research does not fully consider these challenges or how NHS staff navigate legal and ethical concerns in providing care. This study aims to fill these gaps by documenting both patient and staff experiences.
Through case studies in areas where ethnic minorities and migrant people face the greatest challenges, this project will use ethnographic methods to gather detailed personal experiences. We will speak with individuals who have past or current experiences with reproductive and maternal healthcare. This will help us understand how people feel, perceive, and physically experience receiving, providing, or being denied care over time
REC name
Social Care REC
REC reference
25/IEC08/0019
Date of REC Opinion
5 Aug 2025
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion