Exploring Muslim Women's Reproductive Health Needs and Preferences in the Emergency Department.

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Health
• Qualitative Research
• Sociology of Health

Background:

• Understanding the reproductive healthcare experiences of Muslim women is vital for equitable care.
• Previous research has not fully captured the nuances of their preferences and beliefs within emergency settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore Muslim women's reproductive healthcare experiences, preferences, beliefs, and behaviors.
• To identify factors influencing their healthcare decisions in emergency departments (EDs) and general practice.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study utilizing semi-structured interviews with 26 self-identified Muslim women in a community ED.
• Interviews conducted in English and Arabic, analyzed using inductive thematic analysis.
• Results interpreted considering interview language and patient age.

Main Results:

• Cultural sensitivity and representation among ED staff reduced discrimination and enhanced inclusion for Muslim patients.
• While preferring female clinicians for reproductive health, participants prioritized confidentiality over cultural concordance in the ED.
• Marital status influenced reproductive and sexual health beliefs; family planning was widely accepted.

Conclusions:

• Clinicians should develop culturally sensitive practices to improve reproductive healthcare for Muslim women.
• Addressing assumptions about Muslim identity and respecting patient preferences for clinician gender and confidentiality are key.
• Findings can inform ED protocols to better serve this demographic.