Пренатални и постнатални грижи сред ромските майки: етнокултурни фактори и здравни предизвикателства (качествено изследване)
Prenatal and postnatal care among roma mothers: ethnocultural factors and health challenges (qualitative study)

Summary/Abstract: Background: Roma women in Bulgaria continue to face systemic barriers in accessing prenatal and postnatal care. Socio-economic difficulties, cultural specificities, and discriminatory attitudes in the healthcare system affect the quality of maternal and child health. Objective: To examine the cultural characteristics and challenges related to prenatal behavior and care for children aged 0 to 1 year among mothers of Roma origin. Method: Eleven in-depth interviews were conducted with Roma mothers from different locations (the town of Dulgopol and neighborhoods in Varna). The data were analyzed using thematic analysis. Results: Mothers demonstrate high motivation to care for their children, regularly attend antenatal and postnatal clinics, and evaluate some of the health services positively. However, the following were identified: • limited postnatal support and lack of training in maternity wards • unsystematic home visits to newborns • insufficient information about schools for parents • significant influence of the family and kinship system — as a source of support, but also as a source of outdated and risky practices . • discriminatory aspects of health care Positive changes are observed, such as later first births, a better attitude towards education for girls, and a more active role for fathers. Conclusion: Improving maternal and child health care in Roma communities requires a culturally sensitive and integrated approach that combines professional support, community work, father involvement, and increased health literacy.

• Details
• Contents