Photo: Ville Salervo.
In her doctoral dissertation in health sciences, Master of Health Sciences Satu Majlander examined the sexual and reproductive health of migrant and asylum-seeking women living in Finland, focusing on the associations between pre-migration traumatic experiences, past reproductive health events, and mental health. The study revealed substantial differences between groups of women coming to Finland from different countries and regions: the number of childbirths and induced abortions varied significantly across populations. Sexual violence was the most significant factor for mental health symptoms among asylum-seeking women. Based on the results, decision-makers and healthcare professionals can develop more equitable services, thereby promoting the well-being of women and their children. The research also highlights the importance of developing effective data collection practices.
The doctoral dissertation of MHS Satu Majlander titled Sexual and Reproductive Health among Migrant and Asylum-Seeking Women in Finland: Challenges for Health Monitoring will be publicly examined at the Faculty of Social Sciences of Tampere University on Friday, 20 March 2026.
The opponent will be Docent Minna Säävälä from the University of Helsinki. The custos will be Docent Tarja Kinnunen, Faculty of Social Sciences, Tampere University.