A new analysis by Amherst College scholar Jallicia Jolly reveals that U.S. immigration policies are creating significant barriers to prenatal care and parenting choices, with severe consequences for individuals and communities nationwide.
The report, dated June 15, 2026, highlights how restrictive immigration enforcement and limited access to healthcare for undocumented immigrants disrupt early medical care during pregnancy and discourage family planning decisions. According to Jolly, these policies disproportionately affect low-income families and communities of color, exacerbating existing health disparities.
The study details cases where fear of deportation prevents pregnant women from seeking essential check-ups, leading to higher rates of preterm births and maternal complications. Additionally, the uncertainty surrounding immigration status forces many parents to forgo long-term parenting plans, such as choosing safe housing or stable employment.
Jolly argues that the current system not only harms individual health outcomes but also weakens community resilience by fostering instability and mistrust. The findings call for policy reforms to ensure that all families, regardless of immigration status, have access to comprehensive prenatal care and the ability to make informed parenting choices without fear.