Experiences of Women With Physical Disabilities During the Perinatal Period: A Review of the Literature and Recommendations to Improve Care

Abstract

Although pregnancy and childbirth have significant identity and health implications for all women, perinatal research has focused primarily on nondisabled women. In this article, I provide a review of literature regarding the perinatal care experiences of women with physical disabilities. I found that many women with physical disabilities encounter attitudinal, informational, physical, and financial barriers during the perinatal period that contribute to poor care experiences and may subsequently affect health outcomes. In an effort to improve perinatal care experiences and outcomes, I offer recommendations to address the barriers identified in the literature, including increased disability content in medical school curricula.