Untrustworthiness, ineffective communication, and discrimination: The real issues behind lower utilization of labor epidural analgesia by Black Americans.

BACKGROUND: Non-Hispanic Black pregnant individuals utilize up to 50% less labor epidural analgesia compared to non-Hispanic White individuals. PURPOSE: This Outlook and Perspectives aims to evaluate the factors contributing to racial differences in the utilization of labor epidural analgesia. METHODS: Literature on scientific evidence regarding racial disparities in maternal outcomes and labor pain management was reviewed and summarized. FINDINGS: We identified that trust issues with healthcare and providers, ineffective patient-provider communication, and perceived mistreatment and discrimination contribute to these disparities in labor pain management. DISCUSSION: Further research is needed to develop strategies to enhance birthing experiences for Black individuals, including improving patient-provider communication and providing accurate, culturally sensitive patient education on labor pain management.

Duke Scholars

Author Hideyo Tsumura School of Nursing

Author Kathryn IIonka Pollak Population Health Sciences

Author Sarahn M Wheeler Obstetrics and Gynecology, Maternal Fetal Medicine

Author Sharron Lee Docherty School of Nursing