Black Maternal Health Advocates Address Successes and Challenges in Durham Roundtable, US

Black women working to improve Black maternal health assessed recent successes and new roadblocks to lowering the rate of pregnancy related death at an event in Durham this week. The discussion took place at a roundtable organized to mark Black Maternal Health Week, focusing on systemic forces leading to Black women three times more likely to die of pregnancy-related causes than white women. Participants highlighted the importance of policies to address these disparities, including extending postpartum medical care from two months to a year for those on Medicaid due to pregnancy. The new law in North Carolina, restricting abortions after 12 weeks, was criticized for limiting access to care. Medical professionals expressed concerns about threats to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion programs in the medical field, as they play a vital role in improving outcomes, particularly in maternal health. It is crucial to address these challenges to prioritize the well-being of Black mothers and babies.