Abstract

Over 80% of pregnancy-related deaths among Black women in the U.S. are preventable. Racial disparities, biases, and discrimination negatively impact maternal health, by contributing to higher stress levels, affecting pregnancy outcomes. The maternal death rate for Black women with sickle cell (SCD) is 629, Black women without SCD is 12, and the general population 6 per 100,000. The voices of these women are often missing in research. This qualitative study, using Hermeneutic Phenomenological approach, explores the lived experiences of Black women with SCD during pregnancy. Data analysis was completed using an interpretive framework to elucidate the essence of the lived experience, while centering the voices of the participants in the research. Reflective analysis yielded several themes: (1) Trauma During Childbirth; (2) Dismissal, Disbelief, and Inadequate Pain Management; (3) Selfadvocacy; (4) Emotional and Psychological Impact; (5) Racial Discrimination; (6) SCD-related Stigma; (7) Lack of Knowledge; (8) Nurse Advocacy. These themes collectively illustrate the intersecting challenges faced by Black women with SCD and the transformative potential of informed, compassionate, and equitable care. This study sought to generate meaning and understanding from the lived experiences of Black women with SCD during pregnancy. The experiences of the participants are not only reflective of a broader pattern of health disparities but also paint a comprehensive picture of the challenges faced by Black women with SCD, and the compounding effects of racism and chronic illness during pregnancy and childbirth. The findings of this study underscore the persistent and pervasive impact of racial discrimination, stigma, bias, and systemic inequities on the maternal health outcomes of Black women with SCD. The findings highlight both the barriers that persist and the opportunities for transformation within maternal health care delivery. The maternal health of Black women with SCD should no longer be viewed through the lens of generalized data or secondary narratives. They deserve to be heard, believed, and supported through practices and policies that recognize their unique needs and humanity. This study contributes to the growing demand for justice and equity in healthcare and underscores the transformative potential of centering lived experiences in both scholarship and care.

LLU Discipline

Nursing

Department

Nursing

School

School of Nursing

First Advisor

Lisa R. Roberts

Second Advisor

Faye Truax

Third Advisor

Zephon Lister

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Degree Level

Ph.D.

Year Degree Awarded

2025

Date (Title Page)

6-2025

Language

English

Library of Congress/MESH Subject Headings

Sickle cell anemia in pregnancy -- United States; African American women -- Health and hygiene -- United States; Patient advocacy; Maternal health services -- United States; Discrimination in medical care -- United States; Health status disparities -- United States; Sickle cell anemia -- Patients -- Medical care -- United States; Nursing -- Social aspects -- United States

Type

Dissertation

Page Count

x, 77 p.

Digital Format

PDF

Digital Publisher

Loma Linda University Libraries

Usage Rights

This title appears here courtesy of the author, who has granted Loma Linda University a limited, non-exclusive right to make this publication available to the public. The author retains all other copyrights.

Collection

Loma Linda University Electronic Theses and Dissertations

Collection Website

http://scholarsrepository.llu.edu/etd/

Repository

Loma Linda University. Del E. Webb Memorial Library. University Archives

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