Demographic and clinical associations with miscarriage and unsuccessful conception attempts among female Syrian refugees in Lebanon

Female Syrian refugees in Lebanon face poor sexual reproductive health outcomes. However, associated risk and protective factors are not clearly understood. This study, part of the Self-Efficacy and Knowledge Trial, focuses on examining sociodemographic and clinical factors associated with miscarriage and unsuccessful conception among this population.

Miscarriage and unsuccessful conception attempts were relatively high in the sample. Higher male partnered refugee age and lack of pregnancy desire were significant risk factors for miscarriage, while frequent antenatal care visits were protective. Miscarriage was not associated with women’s age, and education. Unsuccessful conception attempts were significantly associated with higher male partnered refugee age, higher maternal age at first pregnancy, and lower number of alive children. No significant associations were found between unsuccessful conception attempts and screening, education, employment, and financial/transportation barriers to seeking healthcare services.

The findings highlight the need for community-based interventions to address modifiable risk factors for miscarriage and unsuccessful conception among female Syrian refugees. This may include strengthening access to antenatal care, promoting family planning and optimal communication strategies, and addressing social and environmental determinants to mitigate related risk factors. Additionally, efforts should focus on improving SRH literacy and facilitating professional healthcare consultations and screenings.

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