Gender of Provider-Barrier to Immigrant Women's Obstetrical Care: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Objective: To explore the preference for female obstetrician/gynaecologists among immigrant women, and providers' understandings of these preferences, to identify challenges and potential solutions.

Methods: Five databases (Medline, Embase, CINAHL, Global Health, and Scopus) were searched using combinations of search terms related to immigrant, refugee, or Muslim women and obstetrics or gynaecological provider gender preference.

Study selection: Peer reviewed, English-language articles were included if they discussed either patient or provider perspectives of women's preference for female obstetrics or gynaecological care provider among immigrant women in Western and non-western settings. After screening, 54 met inclusion criteria and were reviewed.

Data extraction: Studies were divided first into those specifically focusing on gender of provider, and those in which it was one variable addressed. Each category was then divided into those describing immigrant women, and those conducted in a non-Western settings. The research question, study population, methods, results, and reasons given for preferences in each article were then examined and recorded.

Conclusion: Preference for female obstetricians/gynaecologists was demonstrated. Although many will accept a male provider, psychological stress, delays, or avoidance in seeking care may result. Providers' views were captured in only eight articles, with conflicting perspectives on responding to preferences and the health system impact.

Keywords: Emigrants; immigrants; patient preference; physicians; women.