159 “I had to be strong and not get sick until I was in a safe place”: exploring the impact of displacement on refugee women’s sexual and reproductive health using photovoice
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: OP 21: Refugees and Asylum Seekers 4, B308 (FCSH), September 4, 2025, 14:45 - 15:45 Aim To explore how displacement impacts the sexual and reproductive health (SRH) of refugee women. Methods This was a participatory photovoice study integrating photography with narrative inquiry, conducted online between February and May 2024. Six refugee women formerly residing in Moria Reception and Identification Centre (RIC) or Mavrovouni Closed Controlled Access Centre (CCAC) on Lesbos, Greece were involved as co-researchers. Co-researchers captured photographs reflecting the impact of displacement on their SRH and mental health. Visual data were explored in three focus groups and five in-depth interviews. Co-researchers led the analysis, with additional thematic coding by the academic researchers. An intersectional lens guided the interpretation. Results Thirty-six photographs, many including nature symbolism, illustrated how displacement shaped SRH needs, healthcare-seeking behaviour, access to care, and outcomes. Eight themes emerged: bodily autonomy, instability, living conditions, social support, celebrations, healthcare access, resilience, and finding purpose. While displacement exacerbated SRH needs and undermined bodily autonomy, the instability of the asylum process led to deprioritisation of healthcare-seeking and illness was only experienced until a sense of safety was established. SRH outcomes were shaped by intersecting identities. Access to healthcare was compromised by language barriers, undignified treatment, and financial constraints. Despite challenges, narratives highlighted resilience, community and personal growth. Conclusions Holistic, trauma-informed, and culturally sensitive healthcare is essential for SRH equity among refugee women. Refugee-led visual research offers a transformative tool for knowledge production and advocacy.
Authors: Jamilah Sherally, Franceska Dnestrianschii, Zainab Alshamari, Ekram Beshir, Habibe Jafari, Masume Jafari, Kowthar Mohamed, Semira Mohammadyasin, Marielle Le Mat, Maria van den Muijsenbergh, Thomas van den Akker, Saskia Duijs
Institution: Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam
Language: English
Topic: Migration, Health and Trauma
Subfield: Clinical Psychology
Field: Psychology
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,181
OpenAlex ID: W4417104181
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