Black maternal mortality remains one of the most urgent and preventable public health crises in the United States. 

Each year, hundreds of birthers across the nation die from pregnancy-related causes, and more than 80% of these deaths are considered preventable with timely, quality care. Black birthing individuals face a risk of death that is almost four times higher than that of White birthers — a stark reflection of systemic inequities in healthcare and society.  

Founded by the Black Mamas Matter Alliance, Black Maternal Health Week, recognized between April 11-17, raises awareness of this crisis, amplifies Black voices, and promotes solutions that center dignity, equity, and community care. It is both a call to action and a reminder that maternal health is deeply tied to social conditions such as housing, access to care, and the chronic stress caused by racism. 

Maternal Mortality in California

In California, which consistently boasts the lowest maternal mortality rate in the United States, disparities persist. Reports like Centering Black Mothers in California show that Black birthers in the state experience higher rates of life-threatening childbirth complications, preterm births, and maternal deaths compared to other groups. 

For example, Black Californians have higher rates of hypertension both prior to pregnancy and during pregnancy. Additionally, 1 in 4 Black birthing individuals experience symptoms of depression during their pregnancy, higher than other racial and ethnic groups. Black birthers are also more likely than others to have a cesarean delivery, even after accounting for clinical risk factors. 

Disparities affect not only birthing individuals but also infants; the preterm birth rate for Black infants has not improved since 2011, and Black infants are twice as likely to die before their first birthday. These disparities are not explained by age, income, or education alone; rather, they point to structural racism and racist policies, implicit bias in medical settings, and unequal access to respectful, culturally competent care. Once in the hospital for delivery, Black birthers were more likely than White birthers to report they were treated unfairly or disrespectfully because of their race or ethnicity. 

What Actions are Being Taken

Efforts are underway to address these gaps, but more is needed. 

Forty-nine states have (or are planning to) implement a 12-month postpartum extension of Medicaid, which provides insurance coverage during a time when almost two-thirds of pregnancy-related deaths occur, allowing individuals to access needed care.

State perinatal quality collaboratives have instituted education and standardized team-based protocols for pregnancy complications. Some states have also invested in Medicaid reimbursement for interventions to support access to culturally congruent care and equity, such as doula care or community health workers, while local hospitals and organizations invest in community-centered models of care delivery. 

Importantly, states are turning to communities for solutions, centering Black birthing experiences and leadership. Research shows that utilizing community-centered strategies is a key component of ending racial disparities in maternal mortality. Black Maternal Health Week reinforces the importance of these solutions, emphasizing that lasting change requires both policy reform and grassroots action.  

Ultimately, improving Black maternal health is not just about reducing mortality—it is about ensuring that all birthing individuals can experience pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum safely, with dignity and support. Check out the CDC’s website for more opportunities on how you can make an impact. 

If you're a healthcare professional with a prenatal or reproductive health question that can help provide more equitable care and reduce disparities, or if you have questions about how to implement changes in your own community, please call us at the Reproductive Health Hotline 1-844-ReproHH (844-737-7644) after reading our Terms of Service.