Date

12-16-2025

Department

School of Health Sciences

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy in Health Sciences (PhD)

Chair

Nnajiofor, Chinyere Fidelia

Keywords

Pregnancy, women of African origin, nausea, vomiting

Disciplines

Medicine and Health Sciences

Abstract

Nausea and vomiting in pregnancy (NVP) affects about 70% of women (Liu et al., 2020). NVP affected the participants physically, mentally, and emotionally. The qualitative phenomenological study explored the experiences and perceptions of women of African origin ages 18-42 who reside in America in the management of NVP. This study applied the health belief model to explore how women of African origin in America manage NVP despite the cultural beliefs and healthcare challenges women of African origin encountered. A semi-structured interview method and open-ended questionnaires were employed in the research process. Fifteen women of African origin ages 18 to 42 who resided in America participated in the research. The transcript of the data collected was analyzed using the NVivo software that generated 10 categories and several themes. The themes generated addressed participants’ perceptions and experiences in the management of NVP, cultural practices and remedies in the management of NVP, Pharmacological and non- pharmacological management of NVP and how women of African origin that live in America navigated and overcame barriers to healthcare access. Cultural behaviors affected the decisions made by women of African origin in managing NVP. Participants encountered obstacles in accessing quality healthcare services in America. Important implications for social change included the awareness for healthcare providers to be well equipped, knowledgeable and be culturally aware of the various methods and remedies in the management of NVP. The study revealed the need for improved access to affordable and reliable healthcare insurance for women of African origin that live in America.

Available for download on Wednesday, December 16, 2026

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