The racial disparities in maternal mortality and impact of structural racism and implicit racial bias on pregnant Black women: A Review of the literature (13 November 2023)

Summary

The maternal mortality rate (MMR) in the United States continues to increase despite medical advances and is exacerbated by stark racial disparities. Black women are disproportionately affected and are three times more likely to experience a pregnancy-related death (PRD) compared to Non-Hispanic White (NHW) women.

Keisha E. Montalmant and Anna K. Ettinger carried out a literature review to examine the racial disparities in the United States' MMR, specifically among pregnant Black women.

The review highlights that maternal health disparities for Black women are further impacted by both structural racism and racial implicit biases. Cultural competence and educational courses targeting racial disparities among maternal healthcare providers (MHCP) are essential for the reduction of PRDs and pregnancy-related complications among this target population. Additionally, quality and proper continuity of care require an increased awareness surrounding the risk of cardiovascular diseases for pregnant Black women.