At Obria Fresno, we are dedicated to the health and well-being of all individuals. As we observe Black Maternal Health Week, it’s crucial to highlight the challenges Black women specifically face during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum. This week is an opportunity to raise awareness and advocate for meaningful change in maternal health outcomes for Black mothers.
The Importance of Black Maternal Health Week
Understanding the Disparities
Lack of Access to Care: Studies show Black women are nearly twice as likely compared to White women to have a birth with late or no prenatal care compared to White women, directly affecting both mother and child. Many Black women face barriers such as living in medically underserved areas, lack of transportation, or financial obstacles. In addition, many lack health insurance. In 2019, 14% of Black women in the US were uninsured, compared to 8% of White women.
Quality of Care: Even when Black women access care, it is often not the highest quality. Research shows they are more likely to experience delays, receive inadequate pain management, attention, and face longer wait times. Implicit biases in healthcare contribute to these disparities, leading to misdiagnoses and missed complications.
Maternal Mortality: In 2022, the maternal mortality rate for Black women is 49.5 deaths per 100,000 live births, compared to 19.0 for white women. This disparity persists across income and education levels, indicating the need for systemic change.
Postpartum Health: Black women are also less likely to receive proper postpartum care, which increases the risk of complications. Lack of follow-up care after childbirth contributes to this ongoing health crisis.
How Obria Fresno Supports Black Mothers
At Obria Fresno, we’re committed to creating a safe, respectful, and empowering space for Black mothers—because every woman deserves quality care she can trust.
