Experiences of Black Women With Pelvic Floor Disorders—A Qualitative Analysis Study

Abstract

Importance Disparities research in Black women with pelvic floor disorders (PFDs) has primarily focused on epidemiology or surgical outcomes, but little is known about the patient perspective on seeking PFD care. Objective To provide quality and equitable care to Black women with PFDs, we conducted a qualitative study to hear their perspectives and lived health care experiences. Study Design Black women seeking care for PFDs at a tertiary care institution were invited to participate in qualitative interviews. Open-ended questions explored participants’ knowledge, attitudes, and health care experiences. Interviews were transcribed verbatim and coded line-by-line. Inductive content analysis was performed to identify key themes, and consensus was achieved among the research team. Results Eight Black women aged 21–83 years consented to participate. Patients noted a stigma surrounding PFDs, both among health care professionals and their community. They noted several barriers to care: financial, logistical, and racial bias. They cited difficulties in patient–health care professional communication, including not feeling heard or treated as an individual. They preferred gender and racial concordance with their physicians. These women expressed both a desire for more knowledge and to share this knowledge and advocate for other women. Conclusions Black women expressed distinct obstacles in their PFD health care. They reported not feeling heard or treated as a unique individual. The themes derived from this study identify complex patient-centered needs that can serve as the basis for future quality improvement work and/or hypothesis-driven research. By grounding health disparities research in patient perspectives, we can improve the health care experiences of Black women.