Women's perceptions of provider communication on birth options after cesarean: A qualitative study

Abstract

In the United States, Hispanic and non-Hispanic Black women are more likely to have a repeat cesarean birth (RCB) than non-Hispanic White women. The underrepresentation of Hispanic women and women with previous cesarean births in prior studies has resulted in a limited understanding of the reasons for this disparity. This study used in-depth interviews to investigate the perceptions of 27 Hispanic and non-Hispanic Black and White women about the communication that took place with their providers about their birth options after a previous cesarean. The roles of cultural norms and trust in providers in communication about RCBs were also explored. Results suggest that patient-provider communication and trust of providers for Hispanic and non-Hispanic Black and White women may influence their perception of choice, uptake of information, and ability to make an informed choice regarding birth options. Findings have implications for providers and healthcare management systems who need to account for and attempt to address these differences as they directly affect women's birth outcomes.

Health equity and social determinants of health

“…Kim (2021) analyzed the Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System data for New York City and Washington State to determine if PTB risks are affected by marital status and chronic stress among non‐Hispanic (NH) White, NH Black, Hispanic/Latinx, and Asian women. Mirabal‐Beltran et al (2022) conducted in‐depth interviews among twenty‐seven Hispanic/Latinx and NH Black women about the communication that took place with their providers about their birth options after a previous cesarean. Results suggest that patient‐provider communication and trust of providers, in this population, may influence their perception of choice, uptake of information, and ability to make an informed choice regarding birth options.…”