Health in Crisis : An Integrative Review of Sexual and Reproductive Health in Humanitarian Settings

Abstract: Background: Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) is a cornerstone of overall health, particularly in fragile humanitarian contexts. Despite being recognized as a fundamental human right, access to quality SRH services is often significantly restricted in crisis situations. This limitation can lead to damaging health outcomes for women, children, and marginalized groups. Given this reality, there is an urgent need for an enriched understanding of SRH in area simpacted by conflicts, disasters, and population displacements. With global trends such as increasing forced migration and escalating crises, a thorough re evaluation of the challenges and potential solutions associated with SRH in these contexts is crucial. Aim: The aim of the integrative review is to describe the current status of sexual and reproductive health (SRH) services and interventions in humanitarian settings and explore key challenges in sexual and reproductive health services in these settings. Methodology: This integrative literature review analyzed and synthesized 22 research papers through inductive methodology by Elo and Kyngäs (2008). Results: This in-depth review of studies from a wide range of humanitarian environments worldwide, has unveiled critical insights into the hurdles surrounding Sexual and Reproductive Health (SRH) services. Firstly, barriers to accessibility and awareness prevent individuals from acquiring vital SRH knowledge and services, and this prevention is often intensified by sociocultural stigmas. Educational and language obstacles further amplify these challenges, particularly for migrants. This review also underscores the severe impact of gender-based violence (GBV) and early or forced marriages on SRH outcomes. Conclusions: This analysis reveals key obstacles that obstruct the provision of SRH services in humanitarian settings. Acknowledging these issues enables decision-makers to plan effectivestrategies and interventions to address the SRH needs in these settings. Exploration of each barrier and seeking holistic solutions to overcome these challenges is suggested.