Pregnancy Experiences in the Worcester Ghanaian Immigrant Community

Abstract

Research Question: What are the pregnancy practices of Ghanaian immigrant women in Worcester, Massachusetts? Abstract: Research was conducted to determine if there is a common point of causality for the unusually high infant mortality rate for pregnant Ghanaian immigrant women living in Worcester. The research was conducted through observation in the Lighthouse Chapel, as well as field notes. Consequently, a focus group, two structured interviews, one formal interview, and one survey was conducted. The collected information showed accessibility to health care is not an issue. However, many of the participants experienced racism towards them during clinical encounters. Most, if not all, of the participants discussed experiencing high amount of stress with a lack of social support during their pregnancies