Barriers in Accessing Postpartum Mental Health Care and Coping Strategies Among Migrant and Refugee Women With Postpartum Depression.

BACKGROUND

Postpartum depression (PPD) significantly impacts the well-being of mothers and their families, with migrant and refugee women being particularly vulnerable due to unique stressors and limited access to care. Hence, this scoping review examines the specific barriers refugee and migrant women experiencing PPD face in accessing mental healthcare, as well as the diverse informal support strategies they rely on.

METHODS

This scoping review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines. A comprehensive literature search was performed across multiple databases, including Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, Ovid, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, and ScienceDirect, to identify relevant studies published from database inception to October 30, 2025.

RESULTS

A total of 18 studies (out of 5453 references extracted from bibliographic databases) were included in this scoping review. Common barriers to help-seeking included stigma, lack of culturally sensitive care, language difficulties, and family-related barriers. The elements for seeking help were spiritual practices, support from family, friends, and peers, and community resources.

CONCLUSION

This review highlights the need for culturally sensitive approaches to addressing PPD among migrant and refugee women. Understanding the barriers and informal support types they already use can inform the development of supportive policies and culturally appropriate mental health services to improve access to care and postpartum well-being.