Poster Session 4, 2:15 PM - 3:00 PM: Concourse [B8]

Barriers and Facilitators To Self-Advocacy During the Birthing Process: An Analysis From Focus Groups

Presenter: Angie Mejia

Faculty Sponsor: Lucinda Canty

School: UMass Amherst

Research Area: Nursing

ABSTRACT

Maternal health in the United States continues to be significantly influenced by racial disparities, with women of color experiencing disproportionate rates of mistreatment, maternal morbidity, and mortality. These inequities are influenced by structural and social factors, such as racial bias, communication barriers, and lack of access to supportive care. This study explores how women of color navigate their pregnancy and birth experiences, with a specific focus on self-advocacy and the impact of provider relationships and support systems. A qualitative, non-interventional study was conducted with three women of color who shared their experiences throughout their pregnancy and birth. A focus group provided rich, qualitative insights into the barriers and facilitators they faced in advocating for themselves. Four essential themes emerged: Learning to Speak up and Be Heard, The Intersection of Control and Care, Race and Respect, and Finding a Village. Together, these themes highlighted how various factors contribute to a mother’s overall perception of maternal care and birthing experience. Findings suggest that improving maternal outcomes for women of color requires patient-centered practices that are culturally competent, grounded in mutual respect, and supportive of shared decision-making and effective communication. These findings contribute to research examining Black maternal health inequities and emphasize the importance of valuing and hearing women of color's voices throughout their care. The results can support advancements in provider training, community support efforts, and future research targeted at promoting respectful, equitable maternal care. 

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