Responding to perinatal health and services using an intersectional framework at times of natural disasters: A systematic review

Abstract

The culture of disaster-related health service provision has focused on an “all hazards” disaster management approach, addressing issues from a generalized perspective [1]. This approach has overlooked the specific and time-sensitive needs of a variety of multiply-vulnerable populations. Additionally, understanding service needs from equity and social justice perspectives is critical. Applying intersectional frameworks of Black feminism, Queer theory, and indigenous perspective can dismantle some of the heteronormative approaches of disaster politics. This is especially true for pregnant people, as their health affects more than one generation, and their immediate health and service needs may be more complex than other disaster survivors. This systematic review employed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA) in reviewing 9 out of 2,411quantitative and qualitative studies published between June 2005 and June 2020 to understand perinatal healthcare service provision during times of natural disaster. The result showed a need for focused planning on healthcare services for gestating, birthing, and postpartum people during natural disasters. Further, the inclusion of intersectional and traditional practices and local partnerships are essential in providing specialized services to vulnerable groups for both physical security and psycho-emotional health, were reflected in the findings.