"Because you are a disabled woman": an exploration of maternity care experiences of Cambodian women with disabilities-a qualitative study.

Abstract

This study explores the maternity care experiences of Cambodian women with disabilities and identifies factors influencing their access to services. A descriptive phenomenological study involved in-depth interviews with 15 women with disabilities who were pregnant or had given birth in the last three years. Data were analysed thematically using Penchansky and Thomas's Access framework. Access to care was influenced by location, with rural women with disabilities experiencing geographical and financial barriers travelling to scarce services. Even when services were available, they were less likely to be accessible or resourced with the necessary staff and equipment. Discriminatory attitudes from healthcare providers were commonly reported across all locations. Some rural women reported receiving reasonable adjustments in their care, while women in urban settings rarely cited such accommodations. Broader life circumstances, including family support and experiences of sexual assault, further influenced their access to maternity care. This study highlights the urgent need for government, healthcare providers and key stakeholders to collaboratively enhance policies, planning and practices to deliver inclusive maternity care. Integrating disability-inclusive maternity care education into the training curricula is a necessary first step, with further research to evaluate the impact of training to improve care.