Health Equity in Maternal-Newborn Care: A Sub-Analysis of Interventions for Birthing Women from the Middle East and North Africa.

Objective: To identify evidence-informed interventions that support maternal and newborn health among birthing women from the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), and to explore existing gaps in knowledge related to health equity for this population and their infants.

Data sources: This subgroup analysis forms part of a broader scoping review. A systematic search was conducted across several electronic databases-Medline, CINAHL, Cochrane, ProQuest, ABI Inform Global, PsycINFO, and the Canada Statute Service. Reference lists of identified articles were also manually reviewed to capture additional relevant sources.

Study selection: Of 46 studies included in the larger scoping review, 6 met the criteria for this subgroup analysis. These studies focused specifically on maternal-newborn interventions targeting migrant women and families from the MENA region.

Data extraction: Relevant data were extracted and compiled into summary tables detailing study characteristics, intervention components, and health outcomes.

Data synthesis: The six interventions targeted a range of maternal and newborn health outcomes. Programs such as Moms Matter and Happy Mothers, Happy Babies aimed to improve maternal knowledge and awareness. Culturally safe educational films supported informed decision-making during prenatal screening. Parenting skills and maternal confidence were strengthened through the Mom-to-Mom program and FIRST STEPS initiative. Mental health was also addressed, with both the Parent Buddy for Preterm Infants and FIRST STEPS interventions reducing postpartum depression symptoms. Collectively, the studies emphasized the need for culturally safe, evidence-based care.

Conclusion: This analysis highlights the importance of tailored, holistic interventions to improve maternal and newborn outcomes for MENA migrant women. It highlighted the need for further research to refine and evaluate specific strategies that address the diverse needs of this population.