Addressing the Pregnancy Challenges Faced by Black Women

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — A recent study from the American Heart Association (AHA) reveals alarming statistics about pregnancy-related heart complications among Black women in the U.S. Research indicates that Black women face a much higher risk of severe outcomes during pregnancy, with a mortality rate up to five times greater than their White counterparts.

Understanding the Disparities in Black Maternal Health

The statistics are stark: pregnant Black women are 45% more likely to face fatal outcomes in hospitals, 23% more likely to experience heart attacks, and 57% more likely to suffer strokes. Furthermore, they have increased risks of developing blood clots in the lungs and heart muscle weakness by 42% and 71%, respectively.

According to Syreeta Drake, a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner at C. King Psychiatry, addressing maternal health disparities must also encompass mental health issues. “When we talk about Black maternal health, we cannot really have that conversation without also talking about mental health,” said Drake.

The Rising Concerns

Over the last three decades, maternal mortality rates in the U.S. have seen a staggering increase of 140%, with cardiovascular disease emerging as the leading cause. Drake notes that certain conditions, such as Preeclampsia and Eclampsia—which are significantly more prevalent among Black women—further exacerbate these risks, with Preeclampsia being 60% more common in this demographic. This condition, marked by high blood pressure and kidney dysfunction, is a known risk factor for cardiovascular issues.

The Importance of Mental Health

Drake emphasizes the critical role that mental health plays in the safety of Black mothers. She asserts that many pregnancy-related deaths are preventable through adequate treatment and care. “No one should be dying because of maternal complications when they can be treated and they can be prevented, whether they are medical or psychiatric,” she stated.

Community Resources for Support

Drake encourages women to actively pursue available community resources that focus on both maternal and mental health. Some key organizations include:

• Go Red for Women: An initiative from the AHA focused on heart health.
• Grand Rapids Black Nurses Association: Offers maternal and mental health education and advocacy.
• Pine Rest’s Mother & Baby Day Program: Provides postpartum mental health support.
• African American Health Institute: Offers various maternal and mental health resources and doula training.

Conclusion

As Black Maternal Health Week unfolds from April 11 to 17, raising awareness about the intersection of maternal and mental health is essential. There is a significant need for community involvement and systemic change to ensure that no mother suffers unnecessarily during or after pregnancy.