April 11-17th is Black Maternal Health week, a time to acknowledge that significant disparities still exist in maternal health outcomes. In California and across the United States, Black mothers experience some of the highest rates of life-threatening childbirth complications, deaths from pregnancy-related causes, and babies born too early or too small. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Black women are three to four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women1. This statistic is not just a reflection of individual health choices or behaviors, but proof of inequities deeply ingrained in our healthcare system.
Community Health Centers like Axis exist to ensure that equitable, quality health care services are available to everyone in our communities, including Black mothers. Timely and comprehensive prenatal care not only monitors the health of both mother and baby but also provides opportunities for education and intervention. Did you know that Axis provides expectant mothers with extensive resources to lead a healthy pregnancy? For example, Medi-Cal beneficiaries can participate in the Comprehensive Perinatal Services Program (CPSP) that provides a wide range of culturally responsive services to pregnant individuals from conception through 60 days post-partum. Services include prenatal care, health education, nutritional assessments, individual case coordination, parenting education, and more! In addition, Axis partners with local organizations to address issues such as food insecurity, domestic violence, and financial literacy. The CDC highlights the significance of addressing social determinants of health, such as income, education, and housing, which profoundly impact maternal health outcomes.
At Axis, we understand that there are many factors, negative and positive, that influence medical decision-making. By giving mothers the right resources and support they need, we empower them to advocate for their reproductive health.
References:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (n.d.). Maternal Mortality. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/healthequity/features/maternal-mortality/index.html
