Black Maternal Experiences of Birthing and Postnatal Care During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Background With a longstanding backdrop of maternal health inequalities, literature exploring the experiences of Black mothers in maternity services in the UK is sparse. The Covid-19 pandemic has presented challenge, trauma and complexity across societies. With a disproportionate impact on women from Black and Ethnically Minoritised backgrounds within the perinatal period, their voices and lived experiences urgently need honouring and reflecting in research. Method This study used a qualitative approach and through purposive and snowballing sampling, recruited 13 self-identifying Black women who gave birth in the context of the pandemic. Semi-structured interviews were completed to explore experiences of care during birth and postnatally from maternity services and perinatal mental health services. The study aimed to explore recommendations and ideas for service improvement and policy change. Findings Reflexive Thematic Analysis (RTA) was used from a critical realist stance to interpret data and generate three themes: ‘The Ripples of Covid’, ‘Inequality within Inequality’ and ‘Conscientious Change for Maternity Systems’ with subsequent sub-themes. The context of the pandemic revealed multiple layers of experience with participants sharing what facilitated and hindered their experiences of the care they received. Highlighted were existing inequalities and significant intersections of identity woven into the experiences of birthing and navigating the postnatal transition. Findings were further conceptualised using relevant maternal health literature and psychological theory. Conclusions & Implications The strengths and limitations of the study are outlined including scope for further research such as, experiences and journeys of birthing partners, professionals and the voice of the infant during the pandemic. The implications of the study are explored relevant to communities, maternity services, perinatal mental health services, commissioners, and policymakers to truly tackle Black maternal health inequalities with commitment and sincerity.