Lessons from the field: Jail experiences of pregnant incarcerated women in a home visiting program

Objective: In this report, we share results of a qualitative study of the experiences of pregnant incarcerated women (PIW), released women (RW), and home visitors who participated in an Early Head Start Home-Based Option (EHS-HBO) program that was delivered in a jail. We discuss the challenges of researching and supporting PIW's experiences and offer lessons learned. Background: Carceral environments such as jails present challenges for PIW that can compromise pregnancy outcomes. Research supports the efficacy of targeted interventions, such as EHS-HBO, for other populations (e.g., people who use substances); however, these interventions have not yet reached incarcerated populations. Method: Through separate focus groups for PIW (n = 6) and home visitors (n = 5), and semistructured interviews with RW (n = 3), study participants shared their experiences as PIW and the carceral context. Results: Themes, determined inductively through thematic analysis, included (a) emotional pain from postdelivery separation, (b) struggles accessing help, (c) lack of faith in medical care, and (d) social support in and out of jail. Conclusion: Results from this study elucidate recommendations for home visitors visiting PIW in jail and training jail personnel about maternal health. Implications: Our study highlights the need to further develop home visiting programs and support for PIW and RW. Opportunities for training of jail and home visiting personnel were identified through the focus groups and interviews conducted. The information shared will help professionals working with PIW learn about remarks, attitudes, challenges, and standards of care impacting PIW and maternal mental health.