Category: Healthcare

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🍼 Grading Birth: How “Maternity Care Report Cards” Are Changing the Game for Black Mothers

Maternity Report Card - maternal disparities for Black Mothers.

For too long, Black mothers have carried the weight of an unequal healthcare system—one that often dismisses our pain, ignores our needs, and fails to protect us during one of life’s most sacred transitions: birth.

But now, a new tool is emerging that could change the way we give birth in America—one hospital at a time.

Welcome to the era of Maternity Care Report Cards—a bold step toward accountability, equity, and transparency in maternal health.

✨ What Are Maternity Care Report Cards?

Maternity Care Report Cards are structured evaluations that rate hospitals and states on the quality and equity of their maternal care. Think of them as a grading system for birth facilities—where patients, advocates, and lawmakers can see exactly how a hospital or region is doing when it comes to protecting mothers and babies.

These report cards are still new, but they’re growing fast—and they’re already proving to be a powerful tool in the fight against Black maternal health disparities.

📊 What Do They Measure?

Each report card varies depending on the organization or state, but many include the following:

  • Maternal mortality and morbidity rates
  • C-section rates and birth complications
  • Access to doulas and midwives
  • Racial disparities in birth outcomes
  • Hospital diversity, equity, and inclusion practices
  • Patient safety protocols
  • Mental health screenings and support
  • Patient satisfaction and respectful care metrics

Some report cards go deeper, examining hospital policies around allowing support people (like doulas), how staff are trained in cultural humility, or whether translation services are available for non-English-speaking mothers.

These aren’t just numbers—they’re stories of survival, neglect, healing, and transformation.

🗺️ Where Are They Being Used?

Several states and national organizations are stepping up with their own versions of maternity care scorecards. Here are a few making headlines:

🟪 Connecticut

In 2025, Connecticut introduced a groundbreaking bill that would require all hospitals to publish annual Maternity Care Report Cards. The bill includes a focus on racial equity, staff diversity, and patient safety, and aims to empower mothers with the information they need to make the best decisions about where to give birth. It also removes barriers to doula access and proposes a Perinatal Mental Health Task Force to address emotional care after childbirth.

🟨 New Jersey

New Jersey was one of the first states to launch hospital-level maternal report cards through its Nurture NJ initiative in 2022. These scorecards highlight complication rates, racial disparities, and support services across birth facilities, helping parents choose safer options and pushing hospitals to improve care.

🌐 Nationally

  • The Policy Center for Maternal Mental Health releases annual State Mental Health Report Cards, which assess perinatal mental health support systems across all 50 states. In 2025, the U.S. received a national average grade of C‑, with 19 states earning a D or F.
  • The Leapfrog Group issues scorecards on childbirth practices, including unnecessary C-sections and hospital safety protocols.
  • March of Dimes publishes annual state-level reports on preterm birth rates, infant health, and health policy gaps—highlighting where states are falling short and where they’re making progress.

🖤 Why This Matters for Black Mothers

Black women in America are nearly three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women. The reasons? Structural racism, bias in healthcare, lack of access to culturally competent care, and systems that fail to listen to Black mothers when they speak up.

Maternity Care Report Cards shine a bright light on the problem and help us move toward real solutions:

  • They amplify accountability in hospitals.
  • They inform mothers and families about where they’ll be treated with respect.
  • They support advocacy efforts that are already led by Black women and birth workers.
  • And most importantly—they put data in the hands of the community, where it belongs.

These scorecards are not a cure-all—but they are a step in the right direction. A tool for justice. A way to honor Black motherhood by demanding better.

✊🏾 What Comes Next?

As more states consider implementing report cards, and as more mothers demand transparency and safety, this movement will grow. But change also starts with awareness.

So share this post.
Talk about this with your sisters, daughters, doulas, and friends.
Ask your hospital what they’re doing to improve maternal care.
And when the time comes—demand the grade.

Because when we hold the system accountable, we protect our legacy.

Sources:

Lakischa Smith, Creator of Moms of Color

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Beyond the Bounce Back: A Holistic Approach to Postpartum Healing

Pregnancy is a life-changing experience that brings with it immense joy, but it also presents numerous physical, emotional, and psychological challenges. The period following childbirth, often referred to as the “postpartum” phase, is a time of significant transformation for a woman’s body and mind. The notion of “bouncing back” after pregnancy, however, has often been portrayed in unrealistic terms, focusing primarily on quickly regaining pre-pregnancy physical appearance. In reality, postpartum recovery is about so much more than physical fitness—it’s about healing, adjusting to a new life, and embracing the changes with grace and patience.

Redefining “Bouncing Back”

The traditional idea of “bouncing back” often emphasizes returning to a pre-pregnancy body as quickly as possible, fueled by societal pressures and images of celebrity moms who seem to effortlessly shed baby weight in record time. However, this narrow focus overlooks the broader and more important aspects of recovery. True postpartum recovery involves a holistic approach that encompasses physical health, mental well-being, and emotional resilience.

1. Physical Recovery: Healing from the Inside Out

Pregnancy and childbirth are intense physical processes that take a toll on a woman’s body. From hormonal changes to physical alterations like weight gain, stretch marks, and changes in breast size, the body undergoes a tremendous transformation. After childbirth, it’s crucial to give the body time to heal.

Rest and Recovery: The postpartum period is a time for rest and recovery. Whether you’ve had a vaginal delivery or a C-section, your body needs time to heal. This can include allowing your abdominal muscles to come back together, giving your uterus time to shrink back to its pre-pregnancy size, and letting any tears or incisions heal properly.

Gentle Exercise: While there’s often pressure to jump back into intense exercise routines, it’s essential to start slow. Gentle exercises like walking, pelvic floor exercises, and postpartum yoga can help your body gradually regain strength and mobility. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any postpartum exercise routine.

Nutrition: Proper nutrition is vital for recovery. A balanced diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and protein helps support the healing process, provides energy, and can also support breastfeeding if you choose to do so. Remember, it’s not about restricting calories but about nourishing your body to aid in recovery.

2. Mental and Emotional Recovery: Embracing the Changes

The postpartum period is also a time of significant emotional and psychological adjustment. Hormonal shifts, lack of sleep, and the demands of caring for a newborn can contribute to feelings of anxiety, sadness, or even postpartum depression.

Acknowledge Your Feelings: It’s normal to experience a wide range of emotions after childbirth. From overwhelming joy to bouts of anxiety or sadness, all these feelings are valid. Acknowledge them without judgment and understand that it’s okay not to feel “okay” all the time.

Seek Support: Surrounding yourself with a supportive network can make a world of difference. This could include your partner, family members, friends, or a support group of other new moms. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help when you need it—whether it’s for a listening ear, practical support, or professional help from a therapist or counselor.

Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself. The pressure to “bounce back” can often lead to negative self-talk or feelings of inadequacy. Remind yourself that recovery is a journey, and it’s okay to take it one day at a time. Celebrate small victories, whether it’s getting through a challenging day or simply taking a moment for yourself.

3. Redefining Identity: The New You

Motherhood brings a shift in identity that can sometimes feel overwhelming. The transition from being an individual to being responsible for another life can lead to a sense of loss or confusion about who you are outside of being a mother.

Embrace the Change: Recognize that it’s normal to feel a sense of identity shift after having a baby. Instead of trying to “get back to the old you,” embrace the new you that is emerging. This new identity includes all the wisdom, strength, and love that come with being a mother.

Rediscover Your Passions: While your priorities may have shifted, it’s important to make time for the things you love. Whether it’s a hobby, a career, or simply time spent with friends, reconnecting with these passions can help you feel more grounded and fulfilled.

Balance and Boundaries: Finding balance as a new mom can be challenging, but it’s important to set boundaries that allow you to take care of yourself as well as your baby. This might mean scheduling time for self-care, delegating tasks, or simply saying no when you need to.

Conclusion: Embracing the Journey

Bouncing back after pregnancy is about more than just physical recovery—it’s about embracing the journey of becoming a mother, with all the changes and challenges that come with it. It’s about giving yourself the time and space to heal, both physically and emotionally, and redefining what it means to be your best self.

Rather than succumbing to societal pressures to quickly return to your pre-pregnancy self, focus on the things that truly matter: your health, your well-being, and the precious time spent bonding with your baby. Remember that every woman’s postpartum journey is unique, and there is no “right” way to recover. By prioritizing self-care, seeking support, and embracing the changes with compassion, you can emerge from the postpartum period not just as a stronger mother, but as a stronger, more resilient version of yourself.

With Love, Lakischa Smith

Meet Lakischa Smith, a proud mother and a dedicated public health advocate. With a Bachelor’s from Dillard University and a Master’s in Public Health from Florida International University, she’s committed to sharing honest narratives about black motherhood. Lakischa believes in fostering sisterhood to combat the pervasive forces of white supremacy, and empowering African American women to be agents of change for future generations. She asserts that recognizing and addressing our community’s struggles is crucial, for healing is the key to moving forward. Armed with the power of education and a deep belief in collective action, Lakischa is determined to ensure that the issues impacting African American parenthood aren’t just seen—they’re addressed and resolved.

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Empowering Black Mothers in the Workplace: How Progressive Companies are Leading the Way in Wellness Support

In the evolving landscape of the modern workforce, mental health and well-being are increasingly recognized as cornerstones of a productive, satisfied, and resilient team. This is particularly true for African American mothers, who often face the dual pressures of career ambitions and the multifaceted responsibilities of motherhood, compounded by societal challenges that can affect their mental health. Acknowledging this, a wave of progressive companies is leading the charge in redefining workplace support, creating environments where African American mothers can not only succeed but thrive.

Companies like Google, American Express, Salesforce, Etsy, Johnson & Johnson, Patagonia, and Accenture have set benchmarks for workplace wellness, each offering a spectrum of support services tailored to the needs of working mothers. From Google’s on-site wellness services and healthcare (Google Careers) to American Express’s Healthy Minds program and backup child care services (American Express Careers), these organizations demonstrate a deep understanding of the importance of mental health and well-being.

Salesforce (Salesforce Careers) and Etsy (Etsy Careers) highlight the value of flexibility and self-care, offering wellness reimbursements and mental health days to ensure employees feel supported. Similarly, Johnson & Johnson’s comprehensive health and wellness programs (Johnson & Johnson Careers) and Patagonia’s on-site child care and flexible schedules (Patagonia Jobs) reflect a commitment to the well-being of working parents.

Accenture stands out with its array of mental health and wellness resources, including extensive support for working parents through flexible arrangements and parental leave (Accenture Careers).

By integrating such wellness programs and resources, these companies acknowledge the unique challenges faced by African American mothers. They provide flexible work arrangements, mental health days, access to counseling, and family-friendly policies, all designed to foster a healthier, more supportive work culture.

For African American mothers, these initiatives are not just perks but essential components of a work environment that respects and supports their well-being. As workplaces continue to evolve, the efforts of these progressive companies shine as examples of how to create inclusive spaces that understand and address the diverse needs of their employees.

The focus on mental health in the workplace, especially for African American mothers, is a critical step toward dismantling barriers and building a more equitable professional landscape. As we move forward, it’s imperative that more organizations follow suit, embracing the practices that have proven successful in supporting the mental health and well-being of all employees, particularly those who have historically been underserved.

With Love, Lakischa Smith

Meet Lakischa Smith, a proud mother and a dedicated public health advocate. With a Bachelor’s from Dillard University and a Master’s in Public Health from Florida International University, she’s committed to sharing honest narratives about black motherhood. Lakischa believes in fostering sisterhood to combat the pervasive forces of white supremacy, and empowering African American women to be agents of change for future generations. She asserts that recognizing and addressing our community’s struggles is crucial, for healing is the key to moving forward. Armed with the power of education and a deep belief in collective action, Lakischa is determined to ensure that the issues impacting African American parenthood aren’t just seen—they’re addressed and resolved.

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Chronic Stress and Its Impact on African American Maternal Health: An Unveiled Reality

Chronic Stress and Its Impact on African American Maternal Health: An Unveiled Reality

When we talk about maternal health, we often neglect the silent and profound effects of chronic stress. Particularly in African American mothers, the impact of chronic stress on pregnancy can be stark and potentially damaging. In this article, we explore this crucial issue, aiming to raise awareness and advocate for better health outcomes for all mothers.

Chronic stress is a prolonged and constant feeling of stress that can negatively affect your health if it goes untreated. It can come from long-lasting financial difficulties, a high-pressure job, or relationship issues. In the context of African American mothers, it may also arise from systemic inequalities, racial discrimination, and socio-economic struggles[^1^].

Research shows that chronic stress can have detrimental effects on pregnancy outcomes. According to a study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine, chronic stress can lead to preterm births, especially in African American women[^2^].

Chronic stress can also trigger inflammation in the body, potentially leading to complications like gestational diabetes and hypertension, disproportionately affecting African American mothers[^3^]. Furthermore, the exposure to chronic stressors can have long-term effects on the baby’s development and overall health[^4^].

But there’s hope. By recognizing the link between chronic stress and pregnancy outcomes, we can work towards effective strategies to mitigate these issues. Increasing access to mental health resources, promoting stress management techniques, and advocating for systemic changes can significantly improve African American maternal health.

In conclusion, the impact of chronic stress on the pregnancies of African American mothers is a significant issue that requires our collective attention. Let’s strive for a world where every mother, irrespective of their racial or socio-economic background, experiences a safe and healthy pregnancy. Because every mother matters, and every baby deserves a fair start in life.

To be more clear, here are 15 examples of Chronic Stress:

  1. Constant Work Pressure: Working long hours, meeting high demands, or dealing with workplace conflicts regularly.
  2. Financial Difficulties: Struggling to pay bills, living from paycheck to paycheck, or dealing with significant debt.
  3. Health Problems: Dealing with a chronic illness, a prolonged injury, or a severe medical diagnosis can induce chronic stress.
  4. Caring for a Sick Loved One: The physical and emotional demands of caring for a loved one with a chronic illness or disability.
  5. Relationship Problems: Frequent conflicts or dissatisfaction in a marriage or other close relationship can lead to ongoing stress.
  6. Divorce or Breakups: The emotional turmoil and practical difficulties following a significant relationship ending.
  7. Grieving: Coping with the death of a loved one can lead to prolonged periods of stress.
  8. Single Parenting: The demands and responsibilities of raising children without a partner can lead to chronic stress.
  9. Unemployment: The uncertainty and financial stress of job loss and searching for new employment.
  10. Discrimination: Experiencing ongoing prejudice or discrimination, such as racial or gender discrimination.
  11. Trauma Recovery: Dealing with the aftermath of a traumatic event like a severe accident, war, or personal attack.
  12. Living in a High Crime Area: Regular fear for personal safety or property can cause chronic stress.
  13. Juggling Multiple Responsibilities: Balancing work, family, social obligations, and personal care can lead to ongoing stress.
  14. Social Isolation: Feeling chronically lonely or unsupported.
  15. Chronic Caregiving: The physical, emotional, and financial demands of caring for a family member with special needs or an aging parent.

References
[^1^] Geronimus, A. T., Hicken, M., Keene, D., & Bound, J. (2006). “Weathering” and age patterns of allostatic load scores among blacks and whites in the United States. American journal of public health, 96(5), 826-833.
[^2^] Giurgescu, C., Zenk, S. N., Dancy, B. L., Park, C. G., Dieber, W., & Block, R. (2012). Relationships among neighborhood environment, racial discrimination, psychological distress, and preterm birth in African American women. Journal of obstetric, gynecologic, and neonatal nursing, 41(6), E51-E61.
[^3^] Christian, L. M. (2012). Psychoneuroimmunology in pregnancy: Immune pathways linking stress with maternal health, adverse birth outcomes, and fetal development. Neuroscience & Biobehavioral Reviews, 36(1), 350-361.
[^4^] Monk, C., Spicer, J., & Champagne, F. A. (2012). Linking prenatal maternal adversity to developmental outcomes in infants: the role of epigenetic pathways. Development and psychopathology, 24(4), 1361-1376.

With Love, Lakischa Smith

Meet Lakischa Smith, a proud mother and a dedicated public health advocate. With a Bachelor’s from Dillard University and a Master’s in Public Health from Florida International University, she’s committed to sharing honest narratives about black motherhood. Lakischa believes in fostering sisterhood to combat the pervasive forces of white supremacy, and empowering African American women to be agents of change for future generations. She asserts that recognizing and addressing our community’s struggles is crucial, for healing is the key to moving forward. Armed with the power of education and a deep belief in collective action, Lakischa is determined to ensure that the issues impacting African American maternal health aren’t just seen—they’re addressed and resolved.

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The Environment’s Silent Role in African American Pregnancies

The Environment's Silent Role in African American Pregnancies

Hello, Mamas! Today, let’s shed some light on an issue of increasing importance – the impact of the environment on African American pregnancies, especially regarding preterm birth (PTB).

PTB, defined as a delivery before the 37th week of pregnancy, can lead to significant health issues for newborns, from respiratory to neurological problems[^1^]. PTB has a broad array of risk factors, both modifiable and non-modifiable, including genetics, overall health, and lifestyle[^2^].

Here’s where it gets intriguing: research increasingly points to environmental pollutants as a risk factor for PTB[^3^]. You might wonder, “Why are we focusing on African American pregnancies?” It all comes down to socio-economic disparities in environmental exposure.

Communities of color, particularly low-income neighborhoods, are frequently nestled near industrial areas or bustling roads. This unfortunate geographical disadvantage translates into increased exposure to various pollutants, such as pesticides, particulate matter, and toxic metals[^3^].

Recent studies reveal a shocking truth: the air in these non-white, low-income communities contains a higher concentration of hazardous particles, including potentially harmful elements like vanadium, nitrates, and zinc[^4^].

This disproportionate environmental burden places African American pregnancies at a unique risk. Numerous studies connect higher exposure levels to an increased incidence of PTB[^5^].

So, what can we do? Well, armed with this knowledge[^1^,^2^,^3^,^4^,^5^], we can work towards advocating for cleaner, safer environments for all mothers-to-be, with a particular focus on the African American community. This could mean lobbying for better public transportation in these areas, stricter regulations on industries, and equitable access to quality prenatal care.

By understanding the link between environmental exposure and PTB, we can aim for effective strategies to prevent PTB and work towards healthier pregnancies for all, irrespective of race or socio-economic status.

So let’s join hands, draw from the research, and press for the changes needed to protect our communities, our mothers, and our future generations. Because every child deserves a healthy start, and every mother deserves a safe environment.

References
[^1^] Goldenberg, R. L., Culhane, J. F., Iams, J. D., & Romero, R. (2008). Epidemiology and causes of preterm birth. The Lancet, 371(9606), 75-84.
[^2^] Blencowe, H., Cousens, S., Chou, D., Oestergaard, M., Say, L., Moller, A. B., … & Lawn, J. (2013). Born too soon: the global epidemiology of 15 million preterm births. Reproductive health, 10(1), S2.
[^3^] Ferguson, K. K., O’Neill, M. S., & Meeker, J. D. (2013). Environmental contaminant exposures and preterm birth: a comprehensive review. Journal of toxicology and environmental health. Part B, Critical reviews, 16(2), 69–113.
[^4^] Collins, M. B., Munoz, I., & Jaja, J. (2016). Linking ‘toxic outliers’ to environmental justice communities. Environmental research letters, 11(1), 015004.
[^5^] Stieb, D. M., Chen, L., Eshoul, M., & Judek, S. (2012). Ambient air pollution, birth weight and preterm birth: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Environmental

With Love, Lakischa Smith

Meet Lakischa Smith, a proud mother and a dedicated public health advocate. With a Bachelor’s from Dillard University and a Master’s in Public Health from Florida International University, she’s committed to sharing honest narratives about black motherhood. Lakischa believes in fostering sisterhood to combat the pervasive forces of white supremacy, and empowering African American women to be agents of change for future generations. She asserts that recognizing and addressing our community’s struggles is crucial, for healing is the key to moving forward. Armed with the power of education and a deep belief in collective action, Lakischa is determined to ensure that the issues impacting African American maternal health aren’t just seen—they’re addressed and resolved.

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Elevating Black Moms: A Guide to Prenatal & Postnatal Health

A Guide to Prenatal & Postnatal Health

Introduction Empowering Your Journey: A Resource for Black Mothers is designed to address the specific challenges Black mothers may face during their prenatal and postnatal care journey due to structural racism and bias. This guide is not meant to replace professional medical advice, but rather to provide some useful strategies and resources to help navigate this critical period.

Understanding the Challenges Black mothers in the United States face a disproportionately high rate of adverse pregnancy outcomes, including higher maternal mortality rates and higher incidences of conditions like preeclampsia and gestational diabetes. Structural racism, lack of access to quality care, and implicit bias in healthcare are significant contributors to these disparities​1​​2​.

Prenatal Care

  1. Finding a Supportive Healthcare Provider: It’s crucial to find a healthcare provider who understands and acknowledges these systemic issues. Your provider should be willing to listen to your concerns, respect your choices, and advocate for your health and well-being​2​.
  2. Advocate for Your Health: Speak up if you don’t feel well or have questions about your pregnancy. Don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion if needed. Remember, advocating for your health is crucial​1​.
  3. Understanding Your Risks: Be aware of the potential health risks associated with pregnancy, such as gestational diabetes and preeclampsia. If you have pre-existing conditions like hypertension or diabetes, make sure these are well-managed before and during pregnancy​1​.

Postnatal Care

  1. Extending Healthcare Coverage: Postpartum care is critical for the health of both the mother and the baby. Under the American Rescue Plan Act, Medicaid coverage for pregnant individuals can be extended from 60 days to one-year postpartum​1​​2​.
  2. Accessing Mental Health Resources: Mental health is just as important as physical health. Ensure that you have access to mental health resources and support during the postnatal period.
  3. Community Support: Join local or online support groups for Black mothers such as “The Kuponya Group“. These communities can offer invaluable advice, support, and resources based on their experiences.

Policy Changes and Advocacy It’s important to recognize that changes need to be made at a systemic level to address these disparities. Advocacy for policy changes, such as improving access to healthcare for Medicaid enrollees, extending postpartum coverage, and passing laws like the Black Maternal Health Momnibus, is critical in this endeavor​2​.

Conclusion By being informed and proactive, you can play a vital role in ensuring your health and the health of your baby. Remember, it’s essential to advocate for yourself, seek support, and contribute to systemic changes to improve outcomes for Black mothers.

Please note that this guide should be used as a starting point and a resource. Always consult with healthcare professionals regarding any health-related decisions during your pregnancy and postnatal period.

With Love, Lakischa Smith

Meet Lakischa Smith, a proud mother and a dedicated public health advocate. With a Bachelor’s from Dillard University and a Master’s in Public Health from Florida International University, she’s committed to sharing honest narratives about black motherhood. Lakischa believes in fostering sisterhood to combat the pervasive forces of white supremacy, and empowering African American women to be agents of change for future generations. She asserts that recognizing and addressing our community’s struggles is crucial, for healing is the key to moving forward. Armed with the power of education and a deep belief in collective action, Lakischa is determined to ensure that the issues impacting African American maternal health aren’t just seen—they’re addressed and resolved.

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The Maternal Care Crisis in the United States: A Call for Radical Change

The Maternal Care Crisis in the United States: A Call for Radical Change

The maternal care crisis in the United States transcends the country’s high rate of maternal mortality and infant mortality. Adverse pregnancy outcomes like miscarriage, premature birth, and conditions such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, eclampsia, embolism, and postpartum depression all feature prominently in this crisis. All these adverse outcomes, including the rate of maternal and infant mortality, disproportionately affect Black birthing individuals and their babies more than any other demographic in the country​1​.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that maternal mortality rose by 40% from 2020 to 2021, with the maternal mortality rate for Black women being 2.6 times higher than that for white women. This statistic is not only alarming but points to a deeply entrenched problem of racial inequity in the healthcare system​1​.

The causes of this disparity are multifaceted, ranging from healthcare access issues and underlying chronic conditions to structural racism and implicit bias​1​​2​. Chronic conditions such as hypertension and diabetes often go uncontrolled during pregnancy, increasing the risk of complications​1​. Lack of adequate insurance coverage before, during, and after pregnancy, the absence of interprofessional teams trained in best practices, and the closure of maternity units in many communities all exacerbate the crisis​1​.

Structural racism has played a significant role in these dismal health outcomes. It has led to the devaluing of Black people and has significant impacts on people’s health. It is a powerful social condition rooted in centuries of oppression and continues to persist today in our healthcare policies and practices​2​. Over time, harmful institutional practices and negative cultural representations have contributed to traumatic pregnancy and birthing experiences for Black women​2​.

In response to this crisis, health care providers need training to recognize and address racism and bias in their interactions with Black patients, ensuring that care respects and values Black life​2​. Public policy changes are also necessary, especially those related to healthcare access. The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 extended Medicaid coverage for pregnant people from 60 days to one-year postpartum, but more permanent solutions are needed, such as mandatory extension of postpartum coverage to at least one year, and the passage of the Black Maternal Health Momnibus​2​.

Sympathy and awareness are necessary but insufficient; there must be a radical shift in how Black women and birthing people are treated and cared for on a systemic level. This shift begins by acknowledging their humanity, hearing their voices, and listening to their stories. The role of each individual in dismantling structural racism, a key contributor to racial disparities in maternal health, cannot be overstated. It is well past time to implement policies and healthcare practices to ensure quality healthcare that is equitable and respectful of Black women and birthing individuals​2​.

In the words of Dr. Plenty, “Advocate, advocate, advocate for yourself. And if you need a second opinion, that’s not insulting” to the first physician​1​.

With Love, Lakischa Smith

Meet Lakischa Smith, a proud mother and a dedicated public health advocate. With a Bachelor’s from Dillard University and a Master’s in Public Health from Florida International University, she’s committed to sharing honest narratives about black motherhood. Lakischa believes in fostering sisterhood to combat the pervasive forces of white supremacy, and empowering African American women to be agents of change for future generations. She asserts that recognizing and addressing our community’s struggles is crucial, for healing is the key to moving forward. Armed with the power of education and a deep belief in collective action, Lakischa is determined to ensure that the issues impacting African American maternal health aren’t just seen—they’re addressed and resolved.

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The Urgent Need for Change: Tackling Black Maternal Health Disparities

Black Maternal Health Disparities

Hi Sisters! So, here is the word, Black women in the United States experience three to four times higher rates of pregnancy-related deaths compared to white women. This disparity also extends to their infants, who are over twice as likely to die. Factors contributing to these disparities include limited access to quality healthcare, socioeconomic status, implicit bias, and systemic racism.

The Consequences: These disparities have heartbreaking consequences. Black women face unacceptably poor maternal health outcomes, with disproportionately high rates of death related to childbirth. In 2020, non-Hispanic Black women had a maternal mortality rate of 55.3 deaths per 100,000 births, nearly three times higher than that of non-Hispanic white women. These disparities impact not only the mothers but also their families and communities. It is a reality we cannot tolerate.

Addressing the Root Causes: To combat these disparities, we must address the root causes. We need to dismantle systemic barriers and advocate for policies that promote equitable maternal healthcare. Improving access to quality prenatal and postnatal care is crucial, along with reducing racial bias in healthcare settings. Culturally competent care and anti-bias training for healthcare providers contribute to a more inclusive and respectful environment.

Additionally, addressing social determinants of health is vital in tackling maternal health disparities. Factors such as unstable housing, limited transportation, food insecurity, and substance use must be comprehensively addressed to support Black mothers. By actively eliminating these disparities, we can create a healthcare system that prioritizes the well-being of all women.

The Way Forward: Addressing concerning Black maternal health disparities requires a collaborative effort. Advocacy groups, community organizations, policymakers, and individuals play a crucial role in driving change. Together, we can raise awareness, advocate for policy reforms, and promote initiatives that prioritize equity in maternal healthcare.

Conclusion: The reality of Black maternal health disparities is a pressing issue that demands our attention and action. We cannot ignore the disproportionately high rates of pregnancy-related deaths and poor maternal health outcomes experienced by Black women. By understanding the root causes, advocating for change, and fostering a healthcare system that prioritizes equity, we can work towards a future where every woman, regardless of her race or ethnicity, receives safe, respectful, and equitable care during pregnancy and childbirth. Let us stand together, united in our commitment to addressing these disparities and creating a brighter, more equitable future for all mothers.

Links:

With Love, Lakischa Smith

Meet Lakischa Smith, a proud mother and a dedicated public health advocate. With a Bachelor’s from Dillard University and a Master’s in Public Health from Florida International University, she’s committed to sharing honest narratives about black motherhood. Lakischa believes in fostering sisterhood to combat the pervasive forces of white supremacy, and empowering African American women to be agents of change for future generations. She asserts that recognizing and addressing our community’s struggles is crucial, for healing is the key to moving forward. Armed with the power of education and a deep belief in collective action, Lakischa is determined to ensure that the issues impacting African American maternal health aren’t just seen—they’re addressed and resolved.