Protecting Black Mothers

Black mothers are 3 to 4 times more likely to experience a pregnancy-related death than white women.

This informational campaign comes to you in partnership with the Stark County Community Action Agency.

This month we’re stressing the importance of advocating for black mothers and soon-to-be mothers. Unfortunately, Black women are more at risk for pregnancy-related deaths than white women. According to the CDC, high blood pressure, weakened heart muscles, and thrombotic pulmonary embolism are conditions most often associated with fatal pregnancies.

Most pregnancy-related deaths are preventable. In fact, those fatal odds drop when the attending doctor is also black. The system is failing black families. This week, April 11 to 17, The White House marked Black Maternal Health Week with a presidential proclamation- the first-ever.

Why are black mothers at risk?

To be frank, the health care system does not protect them. From good prenatal care to underlying health conditions to systemic racism, pregnancy care for black women is lacking. Too often, equal care for black mothers is not available or provided.

For more information or to donate to agencies advocating for change, visit blackmamasmatter.org. You can also check out https://pmhapoc.org, or birthequity.org. The SCCAA Community Actions Pathway HUB is an available resource for couples trying to conceive and pregnant couples in need of support, education, and community services. For more information on black maternal health, check out https://www.cdc.gov/healthequity/features/pregnancy-outcomes/index.html.