Maternal Health Beliefs, Perceptions, and Experiences in a U.S. Marshallese Community

J Transcult Nurs. 2020 Mar;31(2):144-152. doi: 10.1177/1043659619854525. Epub 2019 Jun 11.

Abstract

Introduction: The purpose of this article is to review the beliefs, perceptions, and experience of maternal health among Marshallese women. Methodology: The study utilized a qualitative descriptive design with a brief survey of participant demographics. A purposive sample of 43 participants were enrolled. Results: The mean age of participants was 40 years. Four a priori themes were identified as follows: (a) family planning beliefs and experiences, (b) prenatal beliefs and experiences, (c) birthing beliefs and experiences, and (d) postpartum beliefs and experiences. Discussion: This study identified beliefs, perceptions, and experiences among Marshallese that have implications for policy and practice related to culturally congruent health care for Marshallese mothers.

Keywords: Marshallese; Pacific Islanders; community-based participatory research; focus groups; maternal health.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Female
  • Focus Groups / methods
  • Health Knowledge, Attitudes, Practice*
  • Humans
  • Maternal Health Services / standards*
  • Maternal Health Services / statistics & numerical data
  • Micronesia
  • Mothers / psychology*
  • Perception*
  • Qualitative Research