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ReproNet is a University of California–led network dedicated to advancing reproductive health equity for refugee and immigrant communities. Founded in 2019 by the University of California, Irvine, and partner UC campuses, ReproNet works in partnership with refugee communities, providers, and organizations to deliver culturally and linguistically responsive reproductive health education, tools, and training.
Since 2010, more than 685,000 refugees and Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) holders have resettled in the United States, over half of whom are women and girls of reproductive age. Many face barriers to accessing essential reproductive and obstetric care, including prenatal and postnatal care, contraception, and abortion services. These challenges are often compounded by language barriers, cultural differences, limited
health literacy, and unfamiliarity with the U.S. health care system.
ReproNet, University of California, Irvine
Principal Investigator Heike Thiel de Bocanegra, PHD, MPH
Adjunct Professor, Obstetrics and Gynecology
hthiel@hs.uci.edu
Since 2020, ReproNet has delivered over 50 reproductive health literacy sessions on cervical cancer, family planning, and maternal and postpartum health through cultural orientation programs at World Relief, reaching refugee Afghan women across seven cohorts. Program evaluations show that participants not only increased knowledge, but also took meaningful health actions for themselves and others.
“I shared what I learned about miscarriage and its reasons with a sibling who is dealing with this problem, ensuring she knows not to blame herself.”
“Some neighbors were afraid of Pap smear exams. I explained the importance and encouraged them to get screened as soon as possible.”
“One neighbor experienced postpartum depression. I supported her in visiting the clinic and sharing her situation with a doctor.”
These experiences highlight how culturally responsive reproductive health education empowers refugee women to support their families and communities.
ReproNet’s resources also support timely health care–seeking in clinical settings.
“While working in a local emergency department, I encountered an Arabic-speaking patient with postpartum bleeding who shared that she had seen a ReproNet video encouraging her to seek care. Seeing how these resources directly supported a patient in seeking timely care was incredibly meaningful.”
— AH, 2022–2023 UCI Reproductive Health Equity Scholar
In response to COVID-19, ReproNet expanded digital and virtual approaches to continue engaging refugee communities safely and effectively.
ReproNet regularly hosts women’s health sessions in California. In collaboration with local refugee communities, ReproNet has cultivated profound relationships to engage in meaningful conversations with refugee women about their reproductive health preferences over the past four years.
The Refugee Reproductive Health Network (ReproNet) received funding from the Patient Outcome Research Institute 14471-UCI-IC , the National Library of Medicine G08 LM014109, and private donations.
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