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Pregnancy and new parenthood should be a time of anticipation and joy for anyone who’s expecting — but in 2023, in the United States of America, we’re still facing a Black maternal health crisis. The statistics are dire: Black mothers in this country are two to three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes, and late maternal deaths are more than three times more likely among Black women. Most of these maternal deaths are preventable. Here, we look at the crisis — and what’s being done to address it.
Maternal
Health
Crisis
We’re Still Facing a Maternal Health Crisis — Here’s How Black Moms Can Protect Themselves
by Nefertiti Austin
Why Gestational Diabetes Is Underdiagnosed
by Dr. Bayo Curry-Winchell
How the Momnibus Bill Is Helping Black Moms
by Nikesha Elise Williams
Understanding & Addressing the Crisis
In the last few years, there has finally been increasing focus on the long-term effects of prolonged exposure to racism, including the way it affects one’s birth experience.
This Father Had to Turn Pain Into Purpose After Losing His Wife in Childbirth
by Tabby Kibugi
For Black Moms Battling Postpartum Depression, Seeking Help Isn’t Always Easy
by Tabby Kibugi
1 in 5 Patients Report Mistreatment During Pregnancy Care & People of Color Bear the Brunt
by Maggie Ryan
5 Things Moms Can Say To Their Doctors When They Aren't Being Heard
by Chloe Castleberry
Black Moms Speak Out On Being Ignored, Dismissed & Discriminated Against By Doctors
by Nikesha Elise Williams
Black women are three times more likely to die from a pregnancy-related cause than white women.
cdc
Over 80% of pregnancy-related deaths are preventable.
cdc
Preeclampsia and eclampsia are the leading cause of maternal death among Black women.
Population Reference Bureau
Late maternal deaths, occurring between six weeks and one year postpartum, are 3.5 times more likely among Black women.
Population Reference Bureau
In a study, 30% of Black women reported mistreatment during maternal care, and 40% of Black women reported experiencing discrimination during maternal care.
cdc
Black women and babies are disproportionately affected by maternal and infant mortality, regardless of socioeconomic status.
National Bureau of Economic Research
Black women are more likely than white women to experience postpartum depression, but less than half as likely to receive care for it.
CDC and Psychiatric Services
Pregnancy-related deaths in the US have more than quadrupled since 1987.
CDC
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By the Numbers
opener video and all images courtesy Getty, Image designs by tania boghossian
This is an informational video that does not reflect medical advice. Medical treatment plans should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider and can vary significantly based on individual patient needs and medical history.
This is an informational video that does not reflect medical advice. Medical treatment plans should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider and can vary significantly based on individual patient needs and medical history.
This is an informational video that does not reflect medical advice. Medical treatment plans should be discussed with a qualified healthcare provider and can vary significantly based on individual patient needs and medical history.