Switzerland offers high-quality healthcare for pregnant women and women giving birth. Nevertheless, studies show that certain population groups have poorer pregnancy and birth outcomes. These include women with a migration background, women with uncertain residence status and women from socio-economically disadvantaged groups. These groups have been shown to have a higher risk of dying in childbirth, suffering adverse health outcomes and higher peri- and neonatal mortality. Overall, however, little research has been conducted on this topic in Switzerland.

The aim of our study is to identify systemic and organizational barriers that underlie health inequalities. International research provides selective evidence that systemic and organizational factors can constitute barriers and disadvantages during pregnancy and childbirth. However, for Switzerland, as for other countries, there are few systematic studies on this topic.

Our research is divided into three methodological blocks. We collect qualitative and quantitative data to obtain a comprehensive picture.

Part 1

Qualitative interviews with experts and service providers to gain insights into experiences and perspectives.

Part 2

Quantitative survey of obstetricians, gynecologists and midwives to identify trends and patterns.

Part 3

Focus groups with experts to contextualize the results of Part 2.

The data collected will be treated in strict confidence and processed in accordance with the applicable data and privacy protection regulations. No information will be published that could be used to identify the participants. Our project is independent and not affiliated with interest groups or external organizations.

The future of peripartum healthcare depends on how obstetrics and gynecology professionals understand these barriers.

Project Lead

• Dr. Michael Gemperle, Senior Researcher, ZHAW School of Health Sciences, Institute of Midwifery and Reproductive Health
• Prof. Dr. Gianni D’Amato, University of Neuchâtel
• Dr. Didier Ruedin, University of Neuchâtel

Project Team

• Irina Radu-Minner, Research Associate, ZHAW School of Health Sciences, Institute of Midwifery and Reproductive Health
• Dr. Alessandra Polidori, Research Associate, University of Neuchâtel, Swiss Forum for Migration and Population Studies (SFM)

Project Duration

•  August 2023–July 2026

Funding Partner

•  Swiss National Science Foundation