Prevention and treatment of perinatal mental disorders in migrant women

Migrant and refugee women are highly vulnerable to mental health disorders during the perinatal period. As a result, the prevalence of perinatal disorders is high in this group. This chapter outlines some of the factors underpinning this by exploring migratory patterns, prevalence, risk factors and preventative strategies. Reports from international organisations, committees and networks involved in migration issues as well as evidence from scientific literature have been included. The vulnerability of individuals within this population is heightened due to an intersectionality of factors related to gender, ethnicity, religion, citizenship and socio-economic status. Although some of these factors are shared with women from the host country, others are unique and relate to the circumstances pre, during and post migration. Management strategies must take a preventative approach, consider social determinants of health and ensure care provided is culturally competent.