The Intersection of Intimate Partner Violence, Life Stressors, and Perinatal Loss Among Black Women from the United States: Implications for Enhancing Maternity Care Quality and Public Health Practice

Intimate partner violence (IPV) and life stressors, such as housing instability, unsafe neighborhoods, and lack of support, significantly impact maternal and fetal health, potentially leading to perinatal loss. This qualitative study explored the lived experiences of 22 Black women in the United States who identified IPV and other stressors as contributing factors to their perinatal loss. Semi-structured interviews were carried out with women who had experienced perinatal loss and were either pregnant or had given birth after a loss. Descriptive coding and thematic analysis were used in analyzing the data, revealing three main themes: pregnancy in the context of IPV, unsafe and unstable living environments, and challenges in finding support. Women perceived IPV and life stressors as direct causes of their loss, complicating their ability to heal and increasing their anxiety about future pregnancies. This study underscores the importance of addressing IPV and related stressors within maternity care. Maternity care providers should recognize signs of IPV and significant life stressors, provide trauma-informed, culturally responsive care, and facilitate access to supportive services. These insights inform perinatal public health strategies, including surveillance, prevention, and responsive policy.