Enhancing Maternal Healthcare for Latina/Hispanic Women/Birthing People during the Perinatal Period in the United States Through the Social Ecological Model

This essay explores the barriers and facilitators to maternal healthcare services for Latina/Hispanic women/birthing people in the United States, structured around the social ecological model (SEM) across the prenatal, labor and delivery, and postpartum periods. It identifies that Latina women/birthing people encounter several barriers, such as language challenges, transportation difficulties, systemic discrimination, which hinder access to adequate and timely maternal care. These barriers are analyzed across the individual, interpersonal, organizational, community, and policy levels of the SEM. In comparison, facilitators like Spanish- proficient providers, doula and partner support, and culturally appropriate health education programs are highlighted as key to improving healthcare engagement and outcomes. This essay highlights the need for improving communication strategies and support systems within healthcare environments to foster a more inclusive and accessible maternal care experience for Latina women/birthing people. The findings indicate targeted interventions that can address these challenges, promoting better health outcomes for Latina mothers and their infants. The essay includes recommendations for future programs and policies to bridge existing gaps and empower Latina women/birthing people within the healthcare system.