Why Black Women Face Higher Pregnancy Risks—and What You Can Do About It

Why Are Pregnancy Risks Higher for Black Women?

Pregnancy risks are affected by many factors. Black women often face challenges such as barriers to healthcare, difficulty accessing care, and past experiences that may make it harder to trust the healthcare system. These challenges can increase the risk of pregnancy complications, says Dr. Gibson.

Some pregnancy-related health problems that are more common in the Black community include:

• High blood pressure during pregnancy
• Preeclampsia (dangerously high blood pressure during pregnancy)
• Gestational diabetes
• Preterm birth (birth before 37 weeks)
• Low birth weight
• Maternal health complications during and after childbirth

Knowing the warning signs, getting prenatal care early, and keeping regular healthcare appointments can help support a healthier pregnancy for both mom and baby.

Pregnancy Care Focused on You and Your Baby

At MetroHealth, your health and your baby's health come first. “We provide the full range of pregnancy care, from midwives to high-risk pregnancy specialists, based on your individual needs and medical history,” says Dr. Gibson.

Care for a healthy pregnancy includes:

• Pre-pregnancy care: If you are thinking about becoming pregnant, schedule a visit with a healthcare provider. This can help you start your pregnancy as healthy as possible.
• Prenatal care: Once you are pregnant, your provider will check for health concerns that could affect you or your baby and create a care plan just for you. For example, if you have high blood pressure or are at risk for preeclampsia, you may have more frequent checkups and receive a home blood pressure monitor to help track your health.
• Postpartum care: Your care continues after your baby is born. For up to one year after delivery, your provider will monitor your physical and mental health and help you recover and stay well. Ohio Medicaid now covers postpartum care for one full year after childbirth.

Working to Improve Pregnancy Care

MetroHealth is working to improve pregnancy care for Black women by partnering with Birthing Beautiful Communities. This organization provides doulas who offer emotional, physical, and educational support during pregnancy, childbirth, and the first year after delivery.

This partnership is part of MetroHealth's commitment to reducing health disparities and helping all patients receive the care and support they need throughout every stage of life.

Your Questions Answered

Q. Why do Black women face higher pregnancy risks?

A. Black women are more likely to experience serious pregnancy complications due to a mix of factors, including differences in access to care, chronic health conditions, and systemic barriers in healthcare.

Q. What can I do to have a healthier pregnancy?

A. Start prenatal care early, keep all appointments, follow your provider's recommendations, and speak up about any symptoms or concerns. Regular care can help identify problems early.

Q. What warning signs should I not ignore during pregnancy?

A. Call your healthcare provider right away if you have severe headaches, heavy bleeding, chest pain, trouble breathing, swelling that comes on suddenly, or if something just doesn't feel right. Trust your instincts and seek care.