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More American moms are dying during pregnancy, delivery or just after — the most since 1965, in fact.
Defined as death while pregnant or within 42 days afterward from a pregnancy-related cause, maternal mortality in America is the worst among developed nations, according to a recent report. To make matters worse, the risk of maternal death for Black women is 2.6 times as high as that for white women.
As an obstetrics and gynecology physician, I work to ensure every mom and baby in my care thrives. But, a host of factors — including the pandemic — is making that harder.
First, Americans aren’t as healthy as they used to be. Rising rates of obesity, lack of physical activity and stress contribute to declining maternal health, and they put moms at risk for heart disease — the leading cause of maternal death.
Second, people are getting pregnant later in life, increasing their risk for serious complications like preeclampsia, hypertension and gestational diabetes.
Third, access to care remains a significant factor, especially for women of color.
Fourth, the United States has a high caesarean birthrate, which is higher for Black mothers. Unnecessary cesareans are a preventable cause of serious short-term complications, long-term and life-threatening effects in subsequent pregnancies, and overall maternal mortality.
A healthy pregnancy begins long before it starts. Helping young people establish and maintain healthy habits, while proactively managing chronic conditions like obesity, diabetes and hypertension, sets them up for a safer and healthier pregnancy in the future.
Jamilah J. Okoe
Elgin
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