A Mixed-Methods Study of Experiences During Pregnancy Among Black Women During the COVID-19 Pandemic.

ABSTRACT

Pregnant women experienced disruptions in their prenatal care during the coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. While there is emerging research about the impact of COVID-19 on experiences of pregnancy, the majority of studies that have reported on prenatal care and birth during COVID-19 have not incorporated the first-person accounts of Black women. The purpose of this mixed-methods study was to explore the perspectives of Black women on prenatal care, labor, and birth during the pandemic. A total of 33 participants completed questionnaires. Fourteen of these 33 women and an additional 2 participated in qualitative interviews. Descriptive statistics and a mixed-methods analysis were employed. Participants expressed disappointment about disruptions in their experiences of pregnancy including the way their prenatal care was experienced, cancellation of planned "rites of passage," and visitor policy restrictions during and after the birth. Forty-five percent of participants reported being worried about getting COVID-19 and (61%) about their infant getting COVID-19. Many participants experienced a sense of loss that may permeate through other aspects of their lives. Providing extra support and points of contact can help lessen feelings of isolation during the pandemic and can also offer more explanation for rapidly changing policies and procedures.