Spotlight on Black Maternal Morbidity & Mortality Crisis: What you need to know

October is Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month…and according to various studies, Black women experience pregnancy loss--including  miscarriage, stillbirth, preterm birth, and infant death--at a significantly higher rate than White women. It’s important that we as Black women understand the facts and how to prevent unnecessary through self-advocacy and increased vigilance.

Maternal Morbidity/ Mortality Facts

Black women experience pregnancy loss, including miscarriage, stillbirth, preterm birth, and infant death, more often than White women

-        Studies report miscarriage rate (between 10 and 20 gestational weeks) is nearly twice that of White women

-        Per the CDC, Black women are more than twice as likely as Hispanic and White women to experience a stillbirth, which is defined at loss of pregnancy at or beyond 20 weeks

Of graver concern is that the US maternal mortality rates are a dismal compared to other developed nations. Each year 700 women die during pregnancy. A recent 2022 CDC report found that over 80% of maternal deaths are potentially preventable.

Even more alarming is that Black women are three times more likely to die from pregnancy related causes than White women

So why are we seeing such startling rates when the US spends MORE money on healthcare than any other country?

Well the answer to this is a real public health challenge. One that stems from racial disparities and is rooted in implicit bias.

So what can you do to change the narrative and prevent becoming another statistic?

1.      First and foremost KNOW your body. Know key maternal warnings signs such as headache, extreme fatigue, shortness of breath, heavy vaginal bleeding, and sudden onset swelling of hands and face.  In most cases, these symptoms are NOT normal during or after giving birth.

2.      Maintain a healthy lifestyle prior to pregnancy. Control chronic medical conditions ie. diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and tobacco/drug use, prior to conception.

3.      If possible, seek a qualified board certified obstetrician and gynecology of color. We understand the unique needs of women of color best and how to treat these needs

4.      Start prenatal care early.

5.      Be transparent with your doctor about ALL your personal medical problems as well as family medical history.

6.      Protect your mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual health during and after pregnancy

~Dr. Ohakweh~

Chinyere Ohakweh, MD, FACOG, is a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist practicing in the Houston area. She was born and raised in Prince George's County, MD and received her medical degree from Howard University College of Medicine. She went on to complete her residency training in Houston in 2015, thereafter making Houston her second home!

Dr. Ohakweh's special interests include high-risk obstetrical care, women's health and preventative medicine. She is committed to providing quality medical care to women in underserved communities. Patients and colleagues describe Dr. Ohakweh as calm, warm, compassionate, relatable and a patient advocate.

In her free time, Dr. Ohakweh loves spending time with her husband and three children. She also loves fitness and enjoys working out on a daily basis.

Sources: CDC.gov; ACOG.com