US Immigration Detention Centers Accused of Abusing Pregnant Women for Years

A New York Times investigation has uncovered severe mistreatment of pregnant women in US immigration detention centres. Since 2017, at least 47 women were held under conditions that violated medical and humanitarian guidelines. Many reported being denied proper care, even during emergencies.

Candy Castillo Collantes was six months pregnant when she was placed in a detention tent. The space was packed with dozens of bunk beds, a single small window, and no privacy. Women around her cried late into the night, desperate for their families.

When Collantes experienced vaginal bleeding, staff only provided water, prenatal vitamins, and a temperature check. No doctor examined her. She later admitted fearing she would go into labour in the facility, with no medical help available.

Other pregnant detainees described being served food contaminated with cockroaches and drinking water that tasted like bleach. Some were held until their eighth month without adequate nutrition or care. ICE agents reportedly shackled women's hands and feet, even ignoring those in active labour until fellow inmates raised the alarm.

The Department of Homeland Security broke its own guidelines in at least 10 cases. Most detentions occurred in Texas, at facilities like Dilley and Karnes, though some were also reported in Louisiana and Georgia.

The investigation reveals systemic failures in the treatment of pregnant women under Trump-era immigration policies. Detainees faced unsafe conditions, delayed medical attention, and physical restraints during critical moments. Official records confirm these violations took place across multiple states.