Perspectives: Improving antenatal care in prisons (31 August 2015)

Summary

There are estimated 24 000–60 000 women who are pregnant and incarcerated worldwide and they often lack access to antenatal care at the same level as that available in their communities. Despite clear international standards that mandate equivalent care for people in prison, pregnant women in these settings face significant barriers to adequate antenatal care. The needs of pregnant women are often overlooked in prisons designed to house men . We must not forget this vulnerable and hidden cohort of women.

Molly Skerker et al. explore the challenges for pregnant women in prisons worldwide.