FOCUS
Little is known about Black women with intellectual disabilities and their experiences with sexual and reproductive healthcare. However, it is now understood that Black women experience increased uterine fibroids, maternal mortality, and disparities in accessing healthcare services (e.g., early prenatal care, fertility treatment). In addition, women with intellectual disabilities are at increased risk for sexual assault while also less likely to obtain sexual health education and routine sexual health visits. Natasha’s work builds on current understandings of sexual and reproductive health inequities to include the voices of Black women with intellectual disabilities. Natasha aims to translate health equity research into actionable strategies and policy recommendations to improve health service systems and promote self-advocacy among Black women with disabilities.
MORE ABOUT NATASHA
Natasha is an advocate for disability and women’s health policy, and has served in a variety of leadership roles that promote health equity. She intimately understands how structural inequalities influence access and quality of healthcare. Her passion is fueled by her close familial relationships with Black women with intellectual disabilities.
DISSERTATION GRANT AWARDEE — FALL 2023
Black Maternal Resilience: A Mixed Method Study on Perceived Risk of Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes and Decision-Making
This dissertation research explores the association between the perceived risk of pregnancy and childbirth complications and the decision-making processes (i.e. choices in pregnancy planning, healthcare provider selection, and prenatal care) of Black women. Using a mixed-methods approach, the scholar first engages in qualitative research through autoethnography of her own pregnancy and conducts interviews with Black women in Louisiana, followed by a cross-sectional survey.
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