Many people don’t realize that, among developed countries, the United States has the highest maternal mortality rates and, shockingly, it is the only advanced nation to have increasing maternal mortality rates in recent decades.
Black women and indigenous women in the US are particularly at risk, with maternal mortality rates that are two to three times as high as other women.
Education must be increased and awareness raised throughout the nation regarding this maternal health crisis, most of which is highly preventable through basic medical care.
Maternal Health Awareness Day is here to do just that!
Maternal Health Awareness Day Timeline
Introduction of Prenatal Care
Prenatal care began to expand in the 1920s, significantly reducing infant and maternal mortality rates by increasing medical support during pregnancy.
Development of Antibiotics
The introduction of sulfonamides and penicillin in the 1930s drastically reduced deaths from puerperal fever, a major cause of maternal mortality.
Rise of Midwifery and Women’s Health Movement
The 1960s saw a resurgence in midwifery and increased advocacy for women’s health, emphasizing natural childbirth and family-centered care.
Legalization of Abortion and Hospitalization of Childbirth
The legalization of abortion and hospital childbirth during the 1970s marked significant shifts in women’s reproductive rights and maternal healthcare options.
Introduction of Prenatal Diagnostics
Prenatal diagnostics, such as ultrasound and amniocentesis, became widespread in the 1990s, allowing for improved monitoring and management of pregnancies.
History of Maternal Health Awareness Day
Maternal Health Awareness Day has a history that dates back at least to 2018, which is the year that New Jersey became the first state to officially recognize this event.
The founding of the event was built through collaborative efforts of several different organizations including the Rutgers Medical School, Tara Hansen Foundation, and others, to spread awareness to help prevent maternal mortality.
In the years following, the size and scope of Maternal Health Awareness Day has continued to grow, adding in the support of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG), the National Institute for Children’s Health Quality, as well as other organizations.
How to Celebrate Maternal Health Awareness Day
Far too many women’s lives are lost each year – hundreds of thousands – due to preventable causes related to pregnancy and childbirth. Consider some of these ways to get involved with Maternal Health Awareness Day:
Understand Facts About Maternal Health
An excellent way to show support and celebrate Maternal Health Awareness Day might be to learn a bit more about some of the statistics behind this health issue and then share them to raise awareness.
Check out some of these important facts to get started with:
- Almost all maternal deaths and disabilities are preventable with proper medical care
- Some leading causes of maternal mortality include heart disease, stroke, hypertension, infection, blood loss, and preeclampsia
- In 2020, one maternal death occurred almost every two minutes
- Worldwide maternal mortality rates have dropped significantly since 2000 but, according to the CDC, the US has had an increase in recent years
Access Maternal Health Resources
Women who are pregnant or who have recently given birth may be interested in various resources that offer assistance for the best possible health during pregnancy and childbirth and afterward.
Talk to a local medical provider or nurse midwife. Or get access through government programs meant to help mothers, including the WIC Program (Women, Infants, and Children) as well as various initiatives of the Maternal and Child Health Bureau (MCHB)
Other events that can be celebrated throughout the year in relationship to this one include Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week in early May, Infant Feeding Day in early June, and NICU Awareness Month which takes place in September.
Maternal Health: Key Facts and Global Realities
Maternal health is a crucial indicator of the overall strength and equity of healthcare systems worldwide. While notable progress has been made over the past few decades, maternal mortality remains a serious global challenge, shaped by inequality, access to care, and social conditions. The following facts highlight both encouraging advancements and persistent gaps in maternal healthcare across different regions.
Maternal Mortality Decline
Globally, maternal mortality has significantly decreased over the last few decades. Between 2000 and 2023, there was a 40% decline in maternal mortality rates worldwide. This improvement demonstrates the impact of international health initiatives and advancements in medical practices aimed at protecting maternal health.
Disparities in Maternal Health Care
In the United States, African American women are four times more likely to die due to pregnancy-related complications compared to their white counterparts. This stark disparity highlights the urgent need for systemic changes in healthcare provision and access.
Preventable Maternal Deaths
The majority of maternal deaths are preventable with proper medical care. Despite being a developed nation, the United States continues to face challenges in reducing preventable maternal deaths, emphasizing the need for improved healthcare systems and policies.
Maternal Health in Conflict Zones
Sub-Saharan Africa accounts for about 70% of global maternal deaths, with conflict-affected areas experiencing maternal mortality rates of 504 per 100,000 live births. These figures reflect the impact of unstable conditions on healthcare access and quality.
