Obstetrician–gynecologists and other women’s health care providers can help enhance health care for jailed pregnant, postpartum, and nonpregnant women. The fact that the majority of imprisoned women are parents and of reproductive age has significant consequences for their reproductive health care requirements. Racism’s legacies and the racist medical consequences that follow influence disparities in reproductive health for all people, including those who are jailed. Individuals who are incarcerated should receive reproductive health care in accordance with the same guidelines and recommendations as those who are not incarcerated, with special consideration given to the increased risk of infectious diseases and mental health conditions common in incarcerated populations. It is critical to ensure that imprisoned people get respectful, consistent, high-quality reproductive health, pregnancy, and postpartum care in order to reduce inequalities and affirm these people’s dignity.
This version includes guidelines for pregnant, postpartum, and nonpregnant women, as well as assistance for advocating for access to safe, high-quality, and dignified care.
