Black women in the United States face much higher risks during pregnancy and childbirth compared to women of other races.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Black women are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women.
In 2023, the maternal mortality rate for Black women was about 50 deaths per 100,000 live births, while for white women it was around 14.5 deaths per 100,000. This gap has not improved in recent years, even as overall maternal deaths have declined for other groups.
Experts say several factors contribute to this disparity. Chronic health conditions like heart disease and pregnancy complications are more common among Black women. Racial bias and discrimination in healthcare also play a major role, leading to unequal treatment and missed warning signs.
Mental health issues such as depression and anxiety are also more prevalent and often go untreated due to cost and access barriers.
Financial challenges make care harder to get. Without insurance, prenatal visits can cost hundreds of dollars, and therapy sessions for mental health may be $100 to $200 each. More than 60% of uninsured people avoid seeing a doctor because of cost.
The problem is especially severe in some states like Mississippi, Georgia, and Louisiana, where Black maternal death rates are among the highest in the country.
Community groups in these areas are working to improve support and care for Black mothers through education, doula services, and advocacy.
Researchers and health advocates stress that many pregnancy-related deaths are preventable.
Expanding Medicaid coverage for postpartum care and addressing systemic racism in healthcare are key steps to closing the gap and saving lives.
This ongoing crisis highlights the urgent need for better healthcare access, fair treatment, and support for Black women throughout pregnancy and beyond.
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