Bringing a new life into the world is often described as one of the most joyous experiences a pregnant person can have. However, for too many pregnant people, the journey from pregnancy to birth is overshadowed by the stark reality of maternal mortality. Birthing mortality refers to the death of a woman and other pregnant people during pregnancy, childbirth or shortly after delivery — often from preventable causes. The tragic loss of life in what should be a time of celebration raises a critical question: how can we better support pregnant people to avoid this fate?
The issue of birthing mortality is multifaceted, influenced by a variety of factors including access to health care, socioeconomic status and cultural practices. Addressing this issue requires a comprehensive approach that includes education, support and systemic change. In this article, we will explore the key strategies to help people who have recently given birth avoid birthing mortality, emphasizing the importance of proactive health care, community support and policy advocacy.
The importance of early and consistent prenatal care
One of the most crucial steps in preventing birthing mortality is ensuring that pregnant people receive early and consistent prenatal care. Prenatal care allows health care providers to monitor the health of both the birthing parent and the baby, identify potential risks and take preventive measures. Pregnant people who receive regular prenatal care are more likely to have better outcomes because complications can be detected and managed before they become life-threatening.
Early prenatal care includes routine checkups, screenings for conditions like preeclampsia and gestational diabetes and discussions about the pregnant parent’s overall health and lifestyle. Health care providers can offer personalized advice on nutrition, exercise and stress management, all of which contribute to a healthier pregnancy.
However, access to prenatal care remains a significant barrier for many pregnant people, particularly those in low-income or rural areas. To combat this, it’s essential to expand access to affordable, high-quality prenatal services and educate birthing people about the importance of attending all scheduled appointments. Additionally, telehealth services can play a critical role in reaching those who might not have easy access to health care facilities, ensuring they receive the care they need throughout their pregnancy.
Supporting birthing people during childbirth and postpartum
The period during and immediately after childbirth is when pregnant people are at the highest risk of experiencing complications that can lead to maternal mortality. Health care providers must be vigilant during this time, carefully monitoring the person for signs of distress, hemorrhage or infection.
One of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of complications during childbirth is through the presence of skilled birth attendants, such as obstetricians, midwives and nurses. These professionals are trained to handle emergencies and can make critical decisions that could save the birthing parent’s life. In addition to skilled attendants, having a well-equipped medical facility with the necessary resources to manage complications is vital.
After childbirth, the focus should shift to postpartum care. Many birth-related deaths occur in the days and weeks following delivery, often due to conditions like postpartum hemorrhage, infections or blood clots. Regular postpartum checkups are essential to ensure that any complications are identified and treated promptly.
Moreover, providing emotional and psychological support to new parents is equally important. Postpartum depression and anxiety can negatively impact a birthing parent’s health and their ability to care for their baby. Creating a supportive environment where birthing parents feel comfortable discussing their mental health concerns can lead to early intervention and better outcomes.
The role of community and family support
While health care professionals play a critical role in preventing pregnancy and birthing mortality, the support of family and the community is equally important. Women and other pregnant people who have strong support systems are more likely to seek medical help when needed and follow through with recommended care.
Family members can assist by helping with household duties, allowing the birthing parent to rest and recover after childbirth. They can also provide emotional support, encouraging the parent to discuss any concerns or symptoms they might be experiencing. Educating family members about the signs of birthing complications can make a significant difference, as they can help identify when the parent needs immediate medical attention.
Community programs can also offer valuable support by providing resources such as breastfeeding education, parenting classes and mental health services. Peer support groups for new parents can create a sense of community and shared experience, reducing feelings of isolation and stress.
In many cultures, traditional practices and beliefs influence how birthing people approach pregnancy and childbirth. Community leaders and health care providers need to work together to ensure that these practices do not inadvertently increase the risk of maternal mortality. For example, advocating for safe birthing practices and discouraging harmful customs can help protect the health of birthing parents and babies.
Advocacy and policy changes for long-term impact
Preventing maternal mortality requires systemic change at the policy level. Advocacy for policies that ensure equitable access to health care — especially for marginalized communities — is crucial. This includes expanding Medicaid coverage for prenatal and postpartum care, increasing funding for maternal health programs and addressing the social determinants of health that contribute to disparities in birthing outcomes.
Additionally, policies that support paid parental leave, affordable childcare and workplace accommodations for breastfeeding can significantly impact a birth parent’s health and well-being. These measures not only benefit the parent but also contribute to the healthy development of the child.
Efforts to reduce maternal mortality must also address the racial and ethnic disparities that exist in maternal health outcomes. Black and Indigenous birthing people, for example, are significantly more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than their White counterparts. Addressing these disparities requires a commitment to health equity, including training health care providers in culturally competent care and ensuring that all birthing people receive the respectful and dignified treatment they deserve.
The imperative to reduce Black birthing mortality
The journey of new parenthood should be a time of joy, not fear. By ensuring early and consistent prenatal care, supporting birthing people during childbirth and postpartum, involving family and community in care and advocating for systemic policy changes, we can help reduce the risk of birthing mortality and allow every parent to thrive.
As a society, it is our collective responsibility to support pregnant people through their pregnancy and beyond, recognizing that birthing health is a critical component of public health. By taking these steps, we can honor the lives of pregnant people everywhere and work toward a future where birthing mortality is a rare occurrence rather than a persistent challenge.
This story was created using AI technology.
