Scoping Review to Identify Social Determinants of Maternal Health in Morocco

Int J Soc Determinants Health Health Serv. 2024 Apr;54(2):151-162. doi: 10.1177/27551938231217589. Epub 2023 Nov 30.

Abstract

To understand the mechanism of health inequities and their influence on maternal health, the Commission on Social Determinants of Health (CSDH) provides a framework to identify structural and intermediate causes of health inequity. This review maps and describes the current socioeconomic determinants of maternal health in Morocco according to the CSDH framework. A scoping study was carried out from six databases (Springer, Web of Science, Pubmed, Science Direct, Jstor, and Cochrane library) based on quantitative and qualitative research done since 1990. Structural factors such as women's employment and economic status, education level, culture, and gender equity were influenced by intermediary factors such as place of residence, age at marriage, maternal age at childbirth, and parity (either alone or in conjunction with other variables). Together these factors worked to influence maternal health service usage or affected maternal health outcomes. Power dynamics were identified in a variety of social situations that impacted access to health care for women across socioeconomic categories. Studies reveal how social determinants impact maternal health in Morocco. Addressing these determinants is required for sustainably improving maternal and infant health in Morocco.

Keywords: Morocco; birth outcomes; gender norms; healthcare system; women's education.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Health Services Accessibility
  • Humans
  • Maternal Health Services
  • Maternal Health*
  • Morocco / epidemiology
  • Pregnancy
  • Social Determinants of Health*
  • Socioeconomic Factors*