While pregnancy should be a joyous occasion, that isn’t always the outcome for every woman, and even more so for Black women. Contributing to the staggering number of deaths of Black women during pregnancy and postpartum are racial disparities.
In 2022, the CDC released a report stating that about 700 people die during pregnancy or postpartum each year. Additionally, roughly 50,000 people experience complications, both long term and short term, every year. Of those deaths reported, Black women account for two thirds of them, and of those deaths, two in three of them are preventable.
Racial bias significantly impacts the level of care a person receives
What the White House is doing to address the mortality rate
The staggering data has led to the White House proclaiming Black Maternal Health Week.
The Biden-Harris administration is dedicating resources to provide 12 months of extended postpartum coverage to pregnant people with Medicaid coverage who are enrolled in the Children’s Health Insurance Program. President Joe Biden also stated the importance of improving access to healthcare and addressing long-term systemic racism in the country.
Additionally, the administration expressed its intention to make investments that decrease the mortality rate of Black pregnant women.
The CDC recommends pregnant people and their family document their medical care
In addition to the White House’s proclamation and vow to invest in Black women’s health, the CDC has shared multiple recommendations for families to advocate for themselves. The agency suggests pregnant people ask questions and address any concerns with their medical provider, seek immediate care if experiencing any urgent warning signs, document their pregnancy medical history up to one year after delivery, and maintain ongoing healthcare and social support prenatal and postpartum.
