| Issue/Objective |
The objectives of this study are to: 1) Describe the lived SRH experiences of Afghan refugee women in Canada; 2) Identify facilitators and barriers to access and utilisation of SRH services among Afghan refugee women in Canada; and 3) Provide recommendations for improving SRH information and services for Afghan refugee women living in Canada.
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| Methodology/Approach |
To address the proposed questions and objectives, I am currently conducting a multi-methods study that includes four components:
1)A cross-sectional survey of Afghan refugee women in Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario; 2) Focus group discussions (FGDs) with Afghan refugee women; 3) In-depth interviews (IDIs) with Afghan refugee women; and 4) Semi-structured interviews with healthcare providers and representatives of organizations that work with Afghan refugees in Canada. |
| Results |
Since 2021, Canada has experienced a significant influx of Afghan refugees, many of whom are women facing unique challenges in navigating a new healthcare system. Despite this growing population, there remains a critical gap in the literature regarding the overall health needs of Afghan refugees-particularly in the area of sexual and reproductive health (SRH). To date, there is virtually no research that specifically explores the SRH needs, experiences, and service access patterns of Afghan refugee women within the Canadian context.
Through this ongoing research, I aim to fill this gap by generating evidence that captures the lived experiences and health service needs of Afghan refugee women in Alberta, British Columbia, and Ontario. The results of this study will provide valuable insights into the barriers and facilitators affecting access to SRH services, and offer concrete recommendations for improving healthcare delivery. Ultimately, the findings will help inform public health strategies, guide healthcare providers, and support community-based organizations in developing culturally sensitive, equitable, and responsive services that better address the SRH needs of Afghan refugee women across Canada. |
| Discussion/Conclusion |
This research addresses the overlooked SRH needs of Afghan refugee women in Canada, informing gender-responsive healthcare and inclusive policy development. It supports equitable service delivery and can be scaled to benefit other refugee populations through culturally informed, community-driven approaches that empower marginalized voices in health systems and decision-making. |
| Presenters and affiliations |
Manizha Ashna University of Ottawa |
