Pregnancy is a transformative journey that brings joy and excitement, but it can also present unique challenges, especially for certain groups of women. Recent studies have highlighted the increased risk of chronic conditions, pregnancy complications, and adverse birth outcomes among Deaf and Hard of Hearing (DHH) women. This post explores the possible reasons behind these findings and emphasises the importance of improved healthcare communication and support for this vulnerable population.
Communication Barriers:
One of the key factors contributing to the disparities observed in DHH women's health outcomes is the communication barrier they often encounter within the healthcare system. DHH individuals frequently face difficulties effectively communicating their needs, leading to negative consequences. Research has shown that DHH individuals are twice as likely to experience nonadherence to medical treatments and have reduced satisfaction with patient-provider communication. Limited understanding and miscommunication between healthcare providers and patients result in suboptimal patient adherence, improper utilization of healthcare services, and inadequate awareness of healthy behaviours.
Impact of Stress, Depression, and Interpersonal Violence:
In addition to communication challenges, DHH individuals, like other people with disabilities, face a higher risk of increased stress, depression, anxiety, and interpersonal violence. These psychological and social factors can significantly influence pregnancy outcomes. Studies have demonstrated that interpersonal violence during pregnancy can greatly elevate the risk of low birth weight and preterm birth. Unfortunately, DHH individuals often struggle with social marginalisation, lacking accessible resources to address victimization during the crucial pregnancy period.
Conclusion:
The health disparities DHH women face during pregnancy are complex issue with multiple contributing factors. Improved healthcare communication and support services are crucial to address these challenges and enhance the overall well-being of DHH individuals. Efforts should be made to bridge the communication gap between healthcare providers and DHH patients, ensuring effective understanding and shared decision-making. Additionally, providing accessible resources to address stress, depression, anxiety, and interpersonal violence is essential in promoting positive pregnancy outcomes. By addressing these issues, we can work towards a more inclusive and equitable healthcare system for all women, regardless of their hearing abilities.
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