Gloria Chukwuji*, Nasreen Ali, Chris Papadopoulos
Background: Black African and Caribbean women in the United Kingdom (UK) experience poorer maternity care outcomes compared to their White counterparts. Understanding their experiences is essential for addressing these disparities. Aim: The study aimed to synthesise evidence on the maternity care experiences of Black African and Caribbean women in the UK. Methods: A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Electronic databases including PubMed, PsycInfo, CINAHL, and SocIndex were searched for studies published between 2010 and 2022. Inclusion criteria were primary research studies focusing on the maternity care experiences of Black African and Caribbean women in the UK. Nine studies met the inclusion criteria. Data were extracted and analysed using narrative synthesis. Quality appraisal was performed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. Results: The review identified key barriers affecting the maternity care experiences of Black African and Caribbean women, such as ineffective communication, lack of continuity of care, social determinants, racism, and implicit bias within the healthcare system. These factors contributed to challenges in accessing and navigating maternity services, leading to poorer health outcomes. Conclusion: Persistent disparities exist in the maternity care experiences of Black African and Caribbean women in the UK. Addressing these issues requires targeted interventions to improve communication, cultural competence, and continuity of care within maternity services. Policy changes and further research are necessary to enhance maternal care experiences and outcomes for these women. Keywords: Maternity care; Black African and Caribbean women; United Kingdom (UK); Systematic review
Published Date: 2024-10-27; Received Date: 2024-07-30
