Factors Associated with Access, Utilization, and Living Experiences of Labor and Delivery Care among Black Women in the US: A Scoping Review

This scoping review aims to explore the factors associated with the access, utilization, and experiences of labor and delivery (L&D) care services among Black women in the US.

Recent findings highlight the systemic healthcare barriers faced by Black women in the US, such as limited access to midwifery care, increased prevalence of severe maternal morbidity, and pregnancy complications. Cultural practices, health beliefs, and past healthcare encounters also influence Black women's preferences and behaviors during L&D. The identified gaps in the literature call for more research to understand the factors associated with L&D care among foreign-born Black women who deliver in the US.

Recommendations emphasize the need for cultural competence training, individual and community support, and policy changes, especially pertaining to access to education about midwifery care and alternative birthing methods and locations to address the disparities and challenges faced by Black women seeking L&D care.