U.S. Maternal Health Crisis Hits Black Women Hardest

Although the USA is often lauded for its excellent healthcare system, it has become apparent over the past few years that the country is facing a colossal maternal care crisis. During the course of 2020, nearly 24 deaths for every 100.000 live births were recorded – the highest among all developed countries. A sharp increase in maternity-related fatalities was also reported during the first year of the Covid-19 pandemic. Although maternal health concerns can affect anyone, the current crisis is particularly bad for women of color.

Black Women are at a Greater Risk

According to recent statistics, black women are 50% more likely to go into labor prematurely and give birth to underweight babies than white women. Additionally, black women are also three times more at risk to die from pregnancy-related complications. These significant differences can be attributed to a number of things including sky-high stress levels caused by systemic racism, a discriminatory healthcare system, and limited access to basic care. Indigenous and Hispanic women are also known to be at greater risk of complications than white women.

Birth Injuries Continue to Plague the Country

Apart from having to contend with various barriers to adequate maternal healthcare, expectant mothers of color also have to prepare themselves both mentally and physically for the birth of their babies.  Every year approximately 28,000 babies in the USA are born with a birth injury. Brachial plexus injuries are among the most common birth injuries and involve damage to the brachial plexus group of nerves in the shoulders. These injuries are most commonly caused by the negligent or intentional actions of medical professionals.  In the event of such an injury, a brachial plexus lawyer will be able to assist with establishing medical malpractice.   

Climate Change Can’t Be Ignored

A 2020 report has highlighted a distinct link between unfavorable pregnancy outcomes and climate change. Again, women of color are disproportionately affected by many of the side effects of climate change including heatwaves, wildfires, tornados, and hurricanes. These events typically result in a considerably higher number of pregnant women needing emergency care.  Black and other non-white communities also have a greater chance of living in urban heat islands, being surrounded by polluted air, and working outside in the elements. Unfortunately, city living, in particular, poses a very big disproportionate health risk to pregnant women of color. 

The U.S. maternal health crisis can put a big damper on what is meant to be one of the most exciting times in a woman’s life. Hopefully, swift intervention will see the necessary changes being made before too much damage is done.