Historically, there have been countless inequities in Black maternal health. Black women three times more likely to die from a pregnancy related death than a white women. In recent years, many Black women, including Serena Williams, Allyson Felix and Tianna Madison, have used their voices to advocate for Black maternal health advances. They added to the conversation on the disparities Black women face during pregnancy.
Many organizations also have been building equity in the maternal health space. With the collaborative effort of organizations and Black voices, there has been more momentum around Black maternal health. Society is beginning to address the important issue that Black mothers face too often. With technological advances and support groups, positive Black maternal health advances are happening around the country.
Krystal Leaphart, a reproductive justice advocate, is encouraged by some of the Black maternal health advances that she is witnessing. “I am mostly encouraged by the Black mamas, birth workers and advocates who have pushed the Black maternal health triumphs to the forefront,” Leaphart told 21Ninety.
One of the positive Black maternal health advances that Leaphart has seen is the rise in Black maternal health caucuses. “Because of [the work of mothers] and the work of elected officials who care, there are now Black Maternal Health Caucuses in states, like Ohio, Minnesota and Pennsylvania.”
In May 2023, Congresswoman Alma Adams, Congresswoman Lauren Underwood and Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ) reintroduced the Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act. The act has 13 bills, aimed at addressing the root causes of Black maternal health disparities.
Leaphart also noted that doctors, doulas are midwives taking higher roles in organizations committed to promoting health equity. These organizations work to address the disparities that exist in the healthcare system.
WHYS, a platform that connects Black physicians and organizations with Black patients, is a prime example of one of these transformative organizations. Another is Health in Her Hue, which aims to reduce racial health disparities through technology. Sista Midwife Directory, The National Black Doulas Association and the National Black Midwifery Alliance also push for healthcare equity.
Technology is also playing a huge role in revolutionizing the birthing experience for Black women. There are multiple new applications, like Irth, for women and parents of color to rate their experiences with a hospital or doctor. “Expecting mamas can research the birth team and make sure they are a good match for their needs,” Leaphart said.
These applications help mothers-to-be and other parents make informed choices on where and how they give birth. Other apps, like Wolomi and The Journey Pregnancy App, help mothers have a safer and more informed pregnancy journey.