Pregnant Refugee Patients
On This Page9 sections
Overview
Pregnant refugees require the standard prenatal care plus attention to refugee-specific health issues.
Additional Screening
In addition to routine prenatal screening:
- Hepatitis B serology (if not already done)
- HIV screening
- Syphilis screening
- Rubella immunity
- Hemoglobinopathy screen
Specific Considerations
Malaria
- Consider screening in recently arrived pregnant women from endemic areas
- Malaria in pregnancy has significant risks for mother and fetus
Vitamin Deficiencies
- Screen for vitamin B12 deficiency
- Screen for iron deficiency
- Consider vitamin D supplementation
Iodine Deficiency
- Screen for subclinical hypothyroidism in patients from iodine-deficient regions
Zika Virus
- Consider testing based on travel history
Mental Health
- Screen for depression and anxiety
- Assess for PTSD symptoms
- Ensure access to mental health support
Cultural Considerations
- Prior experience with healthcare may vary greatly
- Preferences for female providers
- Understanding of prenatal care may differ
Related Guides
Iron Deficiency Anemia - Full Clinical Guide
Full clinical guide to iron deficiency anemia in refugee patients: causes, investigation strategy, treatment doses for adults and children, and follow-up.
Varicella - Management of Non-Immune Refugee Patients
Management of varicella-non-immune refugee patients, including immunization referral pathways and handling of indeterminate serology results.
Tinea Capitis in Refugee Children
Diagnosis and treatment of tinea capitis in refugee children, including terbinafine dosing by weight, baseline investigations, and follow-up.