There is a maternal mortality crisis in America and the face of it is black!
According to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are 12.4 deaths for 100,000 live births for white women, compared to 40 deaths per 100,000 live births for black women. But what are some of the factors contributing to this discrepancy?
“As an obstetrician myself, it is uncomfortable to say this but there is clear evidence that when black women express medical concerns, particularly regarding pain, the health care system is slower to respond than it should be,” Shah says. “This is the common thread in many of the prominent stories in the news of a black woman’s experiences.”
Dr. Neel Shah, assistant professor at Harvard Medical School and an OB-GYN at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston (ELLE, 8/12/19)
There is so much to learn, discuss and do about this very important issue! We want to share some of the most recent news and encourage you to join us this Monday, April 15th, for a special episode of the Resident on Fox inspired by a true story from our favorite organization 4Kira4Moms. After the episode, we will participate in a FB and IG Live on @4kira4Moms. Please share your stories! #4Kira4Moms
HERE ARE SOME RESOURCES TO LEARN MORE:
#BlackMaternalHealthWeek was founded by the Black Mamas Matter Alliance and part of National Minority Health Month, runs through April 17. Learn more about how you can get involved here.
State Legislators Are Finally Doing Something About the Black Maternal Health Crisis
Meet the Women Fighting to Save Black Mothers: ‘There’s a Lot of Work to Do’
To Prevent Women from Dying in Childbirth, First Stop Blaming Them
During a Global Pandemic, It’s More Important Than Ever to Protect Black Mothers
COVID-19 Is No Reason to Abandon Pregnant People
What Pregnant Black Women Need To Know To Have A ‘Safe And Sacred Birth’
For Serena Williams, Childbirth Was a Harrowing Ordeal. She’s Not Alone.
OUR FAVORITE ORGANIZATIONS DOING GREAT WORK:
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