OBSTETRIC HEALTH CARE IN VULNERABLE GROUPS: ACCESS TO CARE AND HEALTH DISPARITIES

Abstract

Introduction: Obstetric health care in vulnerable groups is essential to guarantee the right to reproductive health and reduce health disparities. Women in vulnerable situations, such as those with unfavorable socioeconomic conditions, racial minorities and migrants, face significant barriers in accessing quality care. These barriers include lack of information, discrimination, difficulty in accessing health services and insufficient adequate public policies. Objective: Analyze access to obstetric care in vulnerable groups, identifying the main health disparities faced by these populations. Methodology: The research was carried out in August 2024 through online access to the following databases: LILACS (Latin American and Caribbean Literature in Health Sciences), Bireme (Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Information Center) , SCIELO (Scientific Electronic Library Online) and VHL (Virtual Health Library). Results and Discussion: The results indicate that women from vulnerable groups, such as those with low income, ethnic minorities and migrants, have greater difficulty accessing adequate obstetric care. Among the main factors identified are the lack of quality prenatal care, geographic and cultural barriers, as well as discrimination within health services. This reality contributes to higher rates of pregnancy complications and maternal mortality among these populations. The discussion highlights the urgency of public policies aimed at reducing these inequalities, including the training of health professionals, the expansion of accessible services and the implementation of social support programs that take into account the specificities of each vulnerable group. Final Considerations:  The implementation of inclusive public policies and the promotion of equitable obstetric care are essential, with a focus on reducing social, cultural and economic barriers, ensuring that all women, regardless of their condition, have access to quality care.