Authors:

Major: Biology

Date Created:

Not specified

Course Title:

Professor:

Not specified

About Paper:

Pregnancies in Texas: A Narrative Medicine Approach to Understanding Lived Experiences Post-Roe v. Wade Recent changes in reproductive healthcare practices, following the implementation of Texas Senate Bill 8 (SB8), a law that limits access to abortion care after an early pregnancy, alter how reproductive healthcare services are delivered. These changes have affected patients' emotional well-being, the availability of information, and their reliance on support systems, as well as their interactions with healthcare providers. A reproductive justice framework that emphasizes equitable access to care, informed decision-making, and respect for patient autonomy serves as the foundation for our research. It focuses on how healthcare professionals may more effectively satisfy patient demands while also examining how pregnant women are treated in evolving clinical environments. This study prioritizes patient perspectives and lived experiences using qualitative techniques, guided by a narrative medicine approach. Comprehensive semi-structured interviews were conducted with individuals who became pregnant after 2022. Thematic analysis of the interview transcriptions identified recurring themes, such as emotional responses, access to care, communication with healthcare providers, support networks, and the influence of social and economic factors. This approach facilitates a broader understanding of pregnancy experiences by considering the social and structural factors influencing reproductive healthcare beyond traditional clinical outcomes. According to preliminary data, participants' overall experiences were characterized by increased emotional strain and uncertainty, as well as difficulties navigating healthcare services and obtaining clear information in regard to SB8 law. Several participants emphasized the importance of relational and social support, particularly views of partner engagement, in managing stress and making decisions during pregnancy, which contributed to participants' sense of agency and emotional well-being. The participants' descriptions of differing degrees of support and communication in healthcare settings highlighted opportunities for improved patient-provider relations. Healthcare professionals can promote compassionate, patient-centered care and enhance communication in challenging clinical settings by prioritizing patient stories. Our research demonstrates the value of a narrative-medicine approach to patient experiences and providing effective care. We argue that it is crucial to incorporate narrative knowledge into medical practice and education to promote equitable, responsive, and patient- centered healthcare. Oral Session 2: 10:30 AM-11:45 AM CT Room: MSC 2300 B Presenter #2: Gabriel MacMurray Major: History

Source:

Texas A&M University / 2026

Topics:

No topics listed

Co-authors:

Major: Biology