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Occupational Therapy's Role in Maternity Care: Professional Insights on Supporting Women with Physical Disabilities
Jönköping University, School of Health and Welfare.
2025 (English)Independent thesis Advanced level (degree of Master (Two Years)), 40 credits / 60 HE creditsStudent thesis
Abstract [en]

Introduction: Women with physical disabilities (WPD) face barriers in maternity care, including physical inaccessibility, societal biases, and inadequate healthcare, limiting their engagement in maternal occupations. This study explores the role of Occupational Therapy (OT) in supporting WPD through accessibility improvements, interdisciplinary collaboration, and advocacy. Method: A scoping review of six databases identified 17 relevant studies on systemic maternity care barriers. Findings were validated through focus groups with Estonian occupational therapists (OTs) and midwives. A thematic deductive analysis synthesized data, linking findings to practical OT applications. Findings: Five key themes emerged: provider assumptions, physical accessibility, resource gaps, societal marginalization, and OT’s role in fostering independence and advocacy. Focus groups emphasized OT-led interventions, including provider training, postnatal adaptations, and environmental modifications. Conclusions: OT has transformative potential in improving accessibility, autonomy, and participation for WPD. Findings underscore the need for interdisciplinary collaboration, disability-inclusive policies, and OT-led postnatal interventions. Significance: Integrating OT into maternity care can advance equitable healthcare, support maternal independence, and promote inclusive, client-centered practices for WPD.

Place, publisher, year, edition, pages
2025. , p. 65
Keywords [en]
occupational therapy; women with physical disabilities; maternity care; pregnancy challenges; healthcare equity
National Category
Occupational Therapy
Identifiers
URN: urn:nbn:se:hj:diva-67603OAI: oai:DiVA.org:hj-67603DiVA, id: diva2:1953391
Subject / course
HHJ, Occupational Therapy
Supervisors
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Available from: 2025-05-05 Created: 2025-04-22 Last updated: 2025-05-05Bibliographically approved

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