An Exploratory Study to Assess the Reproductive Health Problems and Health Seeking Behavior of Migrant Women Construction Workers in Mumbai

This research project was based on interviews with migrant women construction workers based in Mumbai and Navi Mumbai, regarding their reproductive health problems and their health seeking behaviour. Through these interviews, the study sought to understand the vulnerability that migration creates for women construction workers in the context of their health seeking behaviour, and their often-overlooked reproductive health problems. 
Background
The rural-to-urban migration experience affects migrant’s health and well being. The migrant construction workers face vulnerability to disease resulting from overcrowded living and poor working conditions. The migrant women construction workers are more vulnerable, due to added responsibilities of procreation. Lack of knowledge and awareness regarding reproductive health leads to neglect of reproductive health problems. 
Methodology
A qualitative study was conducted at construction sites across Mumbai, and twenty married migrant women construction workers were interviewed. 
In depth interviews were conducted using an interview guide, which covered broad aspects including perceptions of health, illness, health seeking behaviour, reproductive health, reproductive health problems, barriers to seeking reproductive health facilities, etc. 
Results
Illness was not much of an issue among these migrant women, and seeking medical help was not very popular among the women. The respondents were unaware of their reproductive health needs, and reproductive health problems. The majority chose not to avail antenatal care and opted for home deliveries. Most of the women, when ill, postponed seeking health care until the illness interfered with work, and preferred private practitioners to Government facilities, due to time constraints, economic reasons, transport, distance, language barriers and non-familiarity with the health systems.  
Conclusion
Rigorous outreach services and awareness programs on reproductive health by the government can help promote access to resources. Reproductive health concerns cut across many aspects of social and economic life are beyond the capacity of the health sector alone, to resolve.