The Association of Social Factors, Barriers to Care, and Stress Among Postpartum Women Within Racial Groups

Abstract

Background: The purpose of this study is to identify barriers to care associated with stress among postpartum women within racial groups. Methods: Paper questionnaires were distributed to English-speaking postpartum women, aged 18 years or older. The questionnaire included demographic questions, a resiliency assessment, and a list of barriers to care. Participants marked which barriers were problematic, including feeling overwhelmed by stress. Results: One hundred and nine completed questionnaires were returned. Participants were 61% White and 27% Black-identifying women. Participants reporting being overwhelmed by stress (SP-stress problem) were similar to participants who were not overwhelmed by stress (NSP-no stress problem) on education and marital status. Overall, the SP group reported more problems with other barriers to care than the NSP group. Within race, Black-identifying and White SP participants reported higher rates of not having enough money (Black-identifying: SP 45% vs NSP 0%; p=.03 and White: SP 31% vs NSP 7%; p=.02) and feeling too tired for everyday activities (Black-identifying: SP 50% vs NSP 0%; p=.01 and White: SP 50% vs NSP 10%; p