Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2025
Abstract
Introduction
Montgomery County faces one of Ohio's highest maternal mortality rates, with notable disparities by race. Despite their importance in reducing maternal deaths, up to 40% of women nationwide do not attend a postpartum care (PPC) visit. While well researched guidelines exist regarding the content and timing of PPC visits, there is a lack of patient perspective on this topic, specifically in the Black-identifying population in an area with a significant burden of maternal mortality.
Methods
Semi-structured interviews and focus group sessions were conducted with 31 participants of maternal health community events in Dayton, OH. Participants were asked their opinions about PPC visit attendance and suggestions for healthcare quality improvement.
Results
Of the 31 participants, 84% identified as Black and 81% were aged 20-49. Thematic analysis of qualitative interviews revealed three key factors affecting postpartum appointment attendance: maternal mental health, relationships and support, and structural healthcare barriers. To improve appointment attendance, participants suggested targeting communication, alternative visit options, care team relations, and structural barriers to care.
Conclusions
Our findings demonstrate that addressing maternal mortality requires understanding the stressors specific to patients' lived experience and the resultant barriers to PPC. Future work should focus on developing community-based interventions and supports to address the identified issues.
Repository Citation
Waters, K. A. (2025). Beyond the Numbers: A Qualitative Exploration of Patient Perspectives on Postpartum Care and Maternal Mortality. Wright State University. Dayton, Ohio.
