The Sickle Cell Data Collection program reported maternal death rates in California (2004–2014) of 629 per 100,000 for Black women with SCD, 12 per 100,000 for Black women without SCD, and 6 per 100,000 in the general population. Yet little is known about the lived experiences of pregnant Black women with SCD, or their perceptions of nurses as advocates. To explore how social structures shape maternal health, the complexities of pregnancy while living with SCD, and nursing's role in care and advocacy, a qualitative study using semi-structured interviews was conducted. An interpretive framework centered participants’ voices and revealed key themes: (1) Trauma During Childbirth; (2) Dismissal, Disbelief, and Inadequate Pain Management; (3) Self-advocacy; and (4) Emotional and Psychological Impact. Together, these themes highlight the intersecting challenges of pregnancy faced by Black women with SCD and the transformative potential of compassionate, informed, and equitable care.
