Promoting sexual health literacy among migrants in Sweden

Abstract

Abstract Background Migrants constitute a growing share of the European population. Refugees and migrants in Europe have a higher risk for poor sexual and reproductive health than the native-born population. These differences can be explained by limited access to sexual health care, family planning and prevention. Newly arrived migrants in Sweden are offered a programme encompassing civic orientation provided in mother tongue by communicators. MILSA web-based education platform aims to secure a national standard for civic orientation. Over a three-year period, 200 communicators across Sweden will receive training. This study will explore civic orientation as an arena for health communication, and the role of the communicators for delivering sexual health information. It will identify active components for the delivery and uptake of sexual health information. Methods Qualitative in-depth interviews were conducted with nine migrant women during their resettlement, and with twenty communicators participating in MILSA education platform. Preliminary results Receiving information in mother tongue by communicators with cultural competence increases access to information. Shared understandings of shame and stigma associated with sexual health constrain the quality of delivery and uptake. Leadership, pedagogic skills, cultural competence, and responsiveness to target group are important qualifications for the communicators. Communicators need an understanding of both cultures, how they interact, and the influence of migration on cultural identity to deliver SRHR information. Trust among participants, and between the communicator and participants is essential for the delivery and uptake of sexual health information. Conclusions Building competence to deliver sexual health information among professionals who encounter migrants at an early stage in the resettlement has the potential to build sexual health literacy and reduce barriers to accessing sexual and reproductive health. Key messages Civic orientation is an important arena for reaching migrants with SRHR information. To empower the migrants to take control of their sexual and reproductive wellbeing in the new country, this information must be culturally, linguistically appropriate and delivered pedagogically.