Introduction/ Rationale: Perinatal loss disproportionately affects minority women due to systemic healthcare inequities, impacting their emotional well-being, daily occupations, and access to culturally responsive support. These disparities contribute to heightened emotional distress, stigma, and limited access to culturally appropriate support. Cultural and religious beliefs shape grief, coping, and occupational participation. This study examines these factors to inform culturally responsive occupational therapy interventions.
Objectives: This study examines cultural beliefs, rituals, and practices that shape the grieving process, occupational engagement, and healthcare experiences in women from minority communities. It aims to identify barriers and supports within social and healthcare systems that influence coping and occupational engagement.
Methods/ Approach: The study employed a mixed-methods design, using a quantitative survey and qualitative interviews to collect data from diverse respondents. Researchers examined the role of religious and cultural rituals, disruptions in daily occupations, and access to formal and informal support systems. A culturally-informed framework guided data collection and analysis to ensure relevance and sensitivity. The university's Institutional Review Board determined the study as exempt from review.
Results / Practice Implications: Preliminary findings show that culture and religion shape grief and occupational engagement. While social networks offer support, they may also create restrictions, leading to isolation or stigma. Occupational therapists can help individuals reengage in occupations by integrating ritual-based coping and fostering community connection.
Conclusion / Significance to the occupational therapy profession: This study explores perinatal loss in underrepresented populations, highlighting gaps in the literature. Integrating these findings into practice can help occupational therapy practitioners provide more inclusive, empathetic care, improving long-term support and health outcomes for minority women experiencing perinatal loss.