Empowering Change: Spotlighting Black Maternal Health in Advocacy Initiatives

Black women face a significant risk during childbirth. They are three to four times more likely to die from maternal complications than their white counterparts, making this a pressing issue in maternal health.

Dr. Cheryl Onwuchuruba, an obstetrician at Novant Health, emphasizes a critical gap in care. She explains that many healthcare professionals often do not listen to Black women adequately. “If a woman is advocating for herself, it’s crucial to pay attention. Ignoring her concerns can delay necessary treatments and increase risks,” she says.

This oversight stems from stereotypes that paint Black women as overly dramatic or resilient. Such misconceptions can lead to serious consequences. Dr. Onwuchuruba shares the story of a patient who lost her uterus after her physician dismissed her symptoms. “Many conditions can escalate quickly; if symptoms are not taken seriously, it can turn dangerous,” she warns.

Age and income also contribute to the disparities in maternal care. “Younger women often face higher risks for conditions like preeclampsia, which may be overlooked as typical pregnancy complaints,” notes Dr. Onwuchuruba. Accessibility plays a role too. If patients struggle to get to appointments due to transportation issues or financial constraints, their health concerns might be dismissed as excuses. “Ignoring these factors can escalate situations into emergencies,” she adds.

In recent years, Novant Health has taken steps to improve access to care. They now offer specialized OB Urgent Care clinics that operate in the evenings and on weekends. This initiative aims to provide timely care without the stress of emergency room visits.

Dr. Onwuchuruba also participates in community outreach, such as baby showers for lower-income families. By engaging directly with patients, she fosters trust and helps address their concerns. She recounts a case where a patient noticed unusual fetal movements. Thanks to swift action, they performed an emergency C-section, ensuring the baby’s survival. “Had her concerns been dismissed, the outcome could have been dire,” she reflects.

Addressing these deep-rooted issues in maternal healthcare is essential. The conversation needs to shift toward listening and understanding the unique needs of Black women. Providing equitable care can save lives.

For further reading, check out the [Centers for Disease Control and Prevention](https://www.cdc.gov/reproductivehealth/maternal-mortality.html) statistics on maternal mortality.

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maternal health