Perspectives of Pregnant Asylum-Seeking Women on Implementation of a Screening Tool for Anxiety, Depression, and PTSD

This project aims to explore a new and innovative approach to sexual and reproductive health and rights while shedding light on often-overlooked perspectives. Researchers seek to understand the most effective approach to initiating discussions about PTSD among pregnant asylum-seeking women. The study centers on capturing the perspectives of these women regarding the feasibility and appropriateness of employing a mental health questionnaire to screen for PTSD, as well as exploring preferences for alternative or combined methods. The overarching objective is to translate the study’s findings into a protocol that will drive policy change.

This study delves into the perspective of pregnant asylum seekers concerning mental health screening. Utilizing the RHS-15 as a screening tool for mental health has proven acceptable and fitting for this demographic. Discussions included recommendations on the implementation of the Refugee Health Screener 15 (RHS-15) within clinical guidelines for midwives providing care to pregnant asylum seekers in the Netherlands.