Rohingya Perinatal Project

Pregnant women and their families are particularly affected by war, facing

violence, displacement to unfamiliar surroundings, disruptions of social support systems, and lack of access to basic needs. Although all war-affected populations may experience stress associated with conflict, flight, and displacement, pregnant women may suffer from this stress differently, as they find themselves struggling to meet the needs of their family while also meeting their own psychosocial and physical needs.The perinatal period—pregnancy through one year postpartum—is a critical time for all family members. The transition to parenthood and the addition of a new family member may bring stress upon a family that is already struggling to cope with the challenges of war and displacement. Events during this time may significantly impact young children’s ability to grow, learn, and thrive. In times of extreme adversity such as war and displacement, mothers, fathers, and other family members are important mediators of family wellbeing. Yet little attention has been given to family experiences in such challenging contexts.

This research will focus on one of the most persecuted ethnic minority groups in the world, Rohingya families who have been forced to flee their homes in Myanmar to seek safety in neighboring Bangladesh. With its focus on women and families during the perinatal period and strong track record as a respected international organization, The Hope Foundation for Women and Children will act as the primary community partner for this project.

Using a methodology that combines collaborative family interviews and life story boards, this study will highlight the role of cultural practices and social supports in impacting family wellbeing from the perspective of mothers, fathers, children, and extended family members.

Project objectives are to:

• Understand the psychosocial experiences and perceptions of the perinatal period from the perspectives of mothers and other family members such as fathers, children, and extended family

• Identify the cultural practices that families engage in during the perinatal period that

may be compromised due to the context of war and displacement

• Explore the impact of formal and informal social supports on the wellbeing of war-

affected and displaced families during the perinatal period

• Share findings with policymakers and practitioners working with women and families in conflict-affected settings to improve psychosocial wellbeing during the perinatal period