Mental Health Experiences of Muslim American Women During the Perinatal Period

Abstract

ObjectiveTo describe the mental health experiences of Muslim American women in the perinatal period. DesignQualitative descriptive. SettingTelephone interviews. ParticipantsEighteen Muslim American women who gave birth in the last 12 months. MethodsWe used a semistructured guide to conduct individual interviews and thematic network analysis to identify key themes across the interviews. ResultsParticipants had a mean age of 32.5 years, 83% were White, and 17% were Asian. Educational attainment ranged from high school diploma to doctorate degree (83% completed a bachelor’s degree or higher), and 83% reported U.S. citizenship. We identified four organizing themes: Need for Tailored Mental Health Support; Challenging Screening Experiences; Mental Health Experiences That Affect Maternal–Infant Bonding; and Faith, Culture, and Mental Health. ConclusionFindings underscore the need for culturally responsive mental health screening and enhanced support tailored to Muslim American women during the perinatal period. Health care providers should use culturally sensitive care approaches to build trust and enhance mental health outcomes.