Abstract
Problem
Childbearing women from ethnic minority groups in the United Kingdom (UK) have significantly
poorer perinatal outcomes overall.
Background
Childbearing women from ethnic minority groups report having poorer experiences and
outcomes in perinatal care, and health professionals report having difficulty in providing
effective care to them. Yet barriers in relation to providing such care remain underreported.
Aim
The aim of this study was to elicit midwives' insights in relation to the common barriers
in providing effective perinatal care to women from ethnic minority groups with 'high
risk' pregnancies and how to overcome these barriers.
Methods
A qualitative study was undertaken in a single obstetric led unit in London, UK. A
thematic analysis was undertaken to identify themes from the data.
Findings
A total of 20 midwives participated. They self-identified as White British (n = 7), Black African (n = 7), Black Caribbean (n = 3) and Asian (n = 3). Most (n = 12) had more than 10 years’ experience practising as a registered midwife (range 2
– 35 years). Four themes were identified: 1) Communication, 2) Continuity of carer,
3) Policy and 4) Social determinants. Racism and unconscious bias underpin many of
the findings presented.
Discussion
Co-created community hubs may improve access to more effective care for childbearing
women from ethnic minority groups. A focus on robust anti-racism interventions, continuity
of carer, staff wellbeing and education along with the provision of orientation and
bespoke translation services are also suggested for the reduction of poorer outcomes
and experiences.
Conclusion
Along with policies designed to promote equality and irradicate racism, there is a
need for co-created community hubs and continuity of carer in perinatal services.
Further research is also required to develop and evaluate culturally safe, and evidence-based
interventions designed to address the current disparities apparent.
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: May 29, 2021
Accepted:
May 20,
2021
Received in revised form:
May 19,
2021
Received:
February 22,
2021
Identification
Copyright
© 2021 Australian College of Midwives. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.
