Support Needs and Gaps for Black and African American Individuals With Fibromyalgia During Pregnancy

Individuals with disabilities, including those with fibromyalgia, have historically faced barriers and stigma in healthcare settings. This issue extends to reproductive health areas, such as pregnancy. Previous research on the pregnancy experiences of individuals with disabilities has predominantly focused on physical or visible disabilities. Furthermore, many studies have overlooked the intersectionality of additional identities, including race and gender identity. This thematic analysis aimed to provide insight into the unique experience of pregnancy for individuals with fibromyalgia.

A total of eight semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants who identified as having fibromyalgia, and had experienced a pregnancy with a live birth within the last 12 months at the time of the interview. Most participants identified as Black/African American. Interviews were analyzed using a reflective thematic analysis approach to identify key themes within the participants' responses.

Participants articulated four major themes concerning their experiences of pregnancy with fibromyalgia: (1) acquiring a chronic and unpredictable condition; (2) the adjustment to pregnancy and parenting; (3) building trust and addressing doubt: healthcare dynamics in fibromyalgia management; and (4) seeking and receiving social support: a multifaceted experience. Each theme contains important subthemes that reflect the dynamic and varied experiences associated with pregnancy with fibromyalgia.

This study elucidates the unique experience of pregnancy among individuals with fibromyalgia, a historically marginalized population. The findings highlight substantial opportunities for improving the pregnancy-related care provided by healthcare providers, including rehabilitation professionals, for individuals with fibromyalgia.