Perceived Barriers to Pregnancy Vaccination Plans in Chile: A Qualitative Analysis

Background Vaccination is widely recognized as a cost-effective public health intervention. However, vaccination rates among pregnant women have been decreasing, especially in low and middle-income countries and in subgroups like migrant communities. Hence, the purpose of this study was to unveil experiences, barriers and facilitators to vaccination recommended by Chile’s National Immunization Program among pregnant women, both locals and international migrants, in three large cities in Chile. Methods A multiple Case Study was conducted. Through snowballing technique, local and migrant pregnant women or women with toddlers (i.e., recently pregnant) were invited to participate (n = 28, 14 Chileans and 14 international migrants). Semi-structured interviews were held online based on a pre-defined guide and lasted for 60–90 minutes. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim and analyzed thematically. The project was approved by the Scientific Ethics Committee at UDD. Results There was general consensus that the country has a very strong immunization program, along with a well-established vaccination culture and compliance with the national immunization plan. Participants identified five main barriers to access vaccines: (i) problems related to vaccine information, (ii) barriers related to potential adverse effects, (iii) some cases of disrespectful or neglectful treatment, (iv) social vulnerability and lack of social support, and (v) unique barriers faced by migrant women. Perceived facilitators were the following three: (i) timely and comprehensive access to information, (ii) free provision of vaccines, and (iii) preferential care at health centers. Conclusions Findings highlight the need for strengthening access to quality and timely information about the vaccination plan during pregnancy, improving client-provider communication, ensuring dignified treatment, and training healthcare workers about health rights of migrant pregnant women in the country. Addressing these multifaceted barriers requires integrated strategies that combine culturally sensitive education, improved provider-patient interactions, and systemic reforms to ensure equitable, non-discriminatory access to maternal vaccines.