Black Women’s Preferences for Embedding Mental Health Services in An Obstetrics Setting

Background: Untreated perinatal depression is a significant public health issue that disproportionately affects low-income black women and may lead to higher maternal mortality rates disparate birth outcomes. Despite the growing literature documenting prevalence risk for among women, our knowledge of patient preferences mental interventions in obstetrical (OB) settings this population limited. This study explored treatment pregnant postpartum an urban OB practice, serving predominantly with insurance. Subjects Method: The sample consisted 14 at obstetrics practice Washington, DC. Semi-structured interviews were conducted gain insight into their emotional experiences during pregnancy postpartum, obtain recommendations within setting. Patient audio-recorded, transcribed, analyzed by two coders using inductive thematic analysis consensus procedures. Results: Participants reported several general content themes: provider- relationship intervention topic feedback. Within overall theme provider-patient relationship, noted differences levels comfort discussing stress issues. Subthemes authentic connection perceived stigma emerged. Relevant subthemes on discussed content, modality, logistics. Conclusion: Our findings support importance offering integrative, culturally competent, accessible order prevent treat settings. Keywords: pregnancy, perinatal, depression, Correspondence:  Courtney Glickman. Dept Counseling Human Development, George Washington University2134 G St NW, DC 20052. Email: [email protected]. Mobile: 727-324-3606. Journal Maternal Child Health (2020), 5(4): 352-362 https://doi.org/10.26911/thejmch.2020.05.04.02