The United States faces a maternal mortality crisis, with the highest rate among high-income countries at 22 deaths per 100,000 live births. Black women are especially at risk, with nearly 50 deaths per 100,000 births. Factors contributing to maternal mortality include cardiovascular conditions and high-risk pregnancies, often exacerbated by inadequate healthcare access and implicit bias. The US method of recording pregnancy-related deaths is also under scrutiny, with concerns that it may overestimate deaths related to pregnancy. Experts suggest improving prenatal care, including assessments before conception and regular checkups during and after pregnancy, to reduce maternal mortality. Additionally, addressing social challenges like poverty and domestic abuse that disproportionately affect Black women is crucial. Advocates emphasize the need to invest in federal infrastructure to monitor and address maternal mortality accurately. Despite these challenges, there is a push to improve outcomes for mothers in the US through better healthcare access, culturally competent care, and data-driven interventions. By addressing systemic issues and providing comprehensive support to pregnant women, progress can be made in reducing maternal mortality rates and ensuring the health and well-being of all mothers in the United States.
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