Perspectives on prenatal care among mothers in an ethnically diverse neighbourhood

Abstract Background Timely initiation of prenatal care is critical to maximising positive maternal and infant health outcomes. Women from ethnic minority backgrounds in high income countries are likely to initiate prenatal care later than the recommended 10 weeks. We explored experiences and perspectives of prenatal care among mothers in an ethnically diverse area in the United Kingdom. Methods We conducted in-depth qualitative semi-structured interviews with 20 expectant and recent mothers who started prenatal care after 10 weeks in an ethnically diverse area. Mothers were recruited using purposive and snowball sampling, through local networks and online advertisements. Interviews were conducted in-person, over the phone or online based on participants’ preferences. Data were analysed using a thematic framework guided by Levesque Conceptual Framework. Results Three key themes emerged: 1.experiences of and perceptions about prenatal care appointments; 2.factors hindering timely initiation of prenatal care; and 3.strategies to enhance prenatal care uptake. Women felt dissatisfied with limited engagement during appointments and suggested that seeing the same professional could improve trust and confidence. Delays were linked to low awareness and insufficient information on scheduling, as well as employment and childcare constraints. Participants recommended simplified health information about care pathways, appointment reminders, and multilingual resources to improve access. Conclusions Key barriers in prenatal care highlight the need for targeted co-produced interventions, including provision of simplified health information and culturally inclusive resources to enhance timely uptake among women in ethnically diverse areas in high income countries. Key messages • Women in ethnically diverse area perceived several barriers for timely prenatal care initiation. • Key barriers in prenatal care highlight the need for targeted co-produced interventions, to support mothers in ethnically diverse areas to start prenatal care on time.