Life Stressors and Mental Well-Being: Experiences of African American Women Navigating Perinatal Loss and Pregnancy Subsequent to Loss

Abstract

Historically, African American women have faced racial disparities in perinatal and neonatal mortality rates. There is limited research on the sustained stress and amplified emotional and psychological strain that African American women undergo during perinatal loss. Studies are even scarcer concerning the heightened emotional and psychological difficulties during pregnancies subsequent to loss. Semi-structured interviews were carried out with 22 African American women who had experienced perinatal loss and were either pregnant or had given birth after their loss. Descriptive coding and thematic analysis served in analyzing the data, revealing three main themes: life stressors, mental health complexities, and coping strategies. The results highlighted an increased risk of adverse perinatal outcomes due to social determinants, including income, access to healthcare, and housing. Furthermore, systemic racism exacerbated psychological distress after perinatal loss, often manifesting as depression and anxiety. The study reveals the urgent need to dismantle systemic racism in maternity and mental healthcare to boost perinatal outcomes for African American women. It provides essential insights for developing effective support programs.