Today's podcast episode is dedicated to a very special cause: Black Maternal Health Week. This week runs annually from April 11-17 and aims to amplify the voices of Black mothers and healthcare providers, highlighting the specific issues within the Black community when it comes to pregnancy and postpartum care.

This topic is especially crucial in the United States, where maternal health rates continue to deteriorate overall and racial disparities persist as they did in the 1930s. America is one of only 13 countries where pregnancy-related deaths are on the rise. 

Unfortunately, preconception and pregnancy have different outcomes for Black women. For example, the World Health Organization deems fertility a woman’s right, but in the United States, Black women are more likely to have damaged fallopian tubes leading to higher rates of infertility. The likelihood of damaged fallopian tubes also means it is more common among Black women to experience ectopic pregnancies, which can be dangerous and life-threatening. As a result, early care is critical for Black women to confirm that their pregnancy is viable and safe.

It is also more common for Black women to experience preeclampsia, a high blood pressure diagnosis that can lead to preterm birth. And while breastfeeding is recommended for all newborns, current statistics show that Black women have the lowest prevalence of breastfeeding compared to all other racial ethnic groups. Breastfed infants are less likely to experience asthma, respiratory infections, diabetes, and obesity. Therefore, the disparity in breastfeeding rates among Black women is a missed opportunity to improve health disparities among this population.

During this episode, we will discuss Black maternal health and how to advocate for Black women. While policy and education can affect change, advocating for oneself is critical. We'll also highlight some of the best resources on this topic, such as Black Mamas Matter, Natal Stories, Family Advocacy Support Centre, and Future Ancestors Services.

Let us continue to shine a light on Black maternal health and advocate for the Black community, not just during Black Maternal Health Week, but always.

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