Abstract overview:
Roma communities in Greece, as in many parts of Europe, face significant social and health disparities, with limited access to healthcare services and systemic barriers hindering their ability to seek timely and appropriate medical care. These barriers are often compounded by socioeconomic challenges, cultural differences, and discrimination, leading to health inequities. In particular, Roma women and families encounter specific obstacles in sexual and reproductive healthcare, where cultural misunderstandings and the lack of culturally sensitive healthcare policies and professional training exacerbate their vulnerability. Despite these challenges, the experiences of Roma families within the Greek healthcare system remain underexplored, especially in the context of Athens, a city where healthcare services are crucial for marginalized populations. This study seeks to shed light on the lived experiences of Roma families, providing an understanding of the systemic barriers they face in navigating the healthcare system.

Aims and objectives:
The study aims to explore the experiences of Roma families in accessing and navigating the healthcare system in Athens, with a focus on sexual and reproductive healthcare. Specific objectives include the following: To understand the barriers Roma women and their families face during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care. To examine the role of social, cultural, and institutional factors in shaping their healthcare experiences. To identify gaps in service provision and opportunities for more inclusive, culturally sensitive healthcare practices.

Method:
This study employed a qualitative research design using semi-structured interviews with Roma women and a small number of Roma men in Athens, Greece. Participants were recruited through community centres and local networks. Interviews focused on experiences related to pregnancy, childbirth, and access to healthcare services. Data were transcribed and thematically analyzed to identify key patterns, challenges and coping strategies. Ethical approval was obtained, and all participants gave informed consent.

Results:
This study employed a qualitative research design using semi-structured interviews with Roma women and a small number of Roma men in Athens, Greece. Participants were recruited through community centres and local networks. Interviews focused on experiences related to pregnancy, childbirth, and access to healthcare services. Data were transcribed and thematically analyzed to identify key patterns, challenges and coping strategies. Ethical approval was obtained, and all participants gave informed consent.

Conclusion:
Roma families in Athens face significant structural and interpersonal barriers in accessing equitable perinatal healthcare. Discrimination, lack of cultural competence and systemic exclusion continue to undermine trust and quality of care. Addressing these issues requires targeted policy interventions, inclusive healthcare practices, and greater community engagement. Centering the voices of Roma women is essential to creating a more just and responsive health system.