Reproductive Health Inequalities African women face in Scotland

The secretary of OCS, Magda Musa, conducted her Master’s dissertation on the health inequalities African women face in Scotland. The study shone great light on how African women are particularly disadvantaged during pregnancy. This is due to institutional racism, cultural and language barriers, and misunderstanding the healthcare system. This also coincided with structural barriers migrant women face in Scotland in terms of poverty, labour market barriers and social exclusion which all lead to poorer mental health and more stressful pregnancies. Magda’s research drew great attention towards the importance of community groups for African women and mothers within their communities in Scotland, as they are important spaces for women to seek solidarity, safety, comfort and advice. One Community Scotland offer safe spaces, and community led groups where women and young people from BME background can feel empowered and supported.