Despite persistent efforts to reduce maternal pathology and mortality rates nationwide, the number of maternal deaths per 100,000 births continued to rise through 2019 (a year before the global pandemic would impact these data.) Socio-economically marginalized groups continue to bear the brunt of these outcomes, with Black mothers in particular experiencing higher rates of complications at delivery, resulting in disproportionate rates of cesarean sections, traumatic births, and both infant and maternal mortality compared to their White counterparts.
Leveraging data and system-wide collaboration between practitioners, staff, hospital administrators, and even legislators are key to improving Black Maternal Health–as are efforts by individuals to acknowledge, engage with, and support Black mothers’ needs and concerns throughout pregnancy and delivery.
