Perceptions of Chronic Stress and Mental Well-Being of African American Women Who Experience Perinatal Loss and Pregnancy Subsequent to Loss

Abstract

This study explored perceived stressors and mental health complexities of African American women before, during, and after a perinatal loss and during a subsequent pregnancy. There is limited research examining multiple oppressions of African American women and their association with mental health and birth outcomes. There is even less research that explores African American women’s lived experiences of perinatal loss and pregnancy subsequent to that loss. The findings from this study will help improve and promote the health of African American women and their newborns. This research will help empower nurses by educating them on mental health complexities and perinatal loss in African American women. Through education, nurses may feel more prepared to assist patients who are navigating their loss journey.