Despite national declines in maternal mortality, Black women in the U.S. saw an increase in pregnancy-related deaths from 2022 to 2023, according to new CDC data. This rise deepens an already alarming racial disparity, even as more than 80% of such deaths are considered preventable.
Advocates have long warned that limited access to comprehensive reproductive care—especially in the wake of the Dobbs decision—would disproportionately harm Black women. Their fears are now being realized. “We have a long way to go before we can see true racial equity in maternal health,” the commentary states.
Solutions exist, but they require urgent action. Listening to Black women is essential. Their lived experiences are often dismissed, even in life-threatening situations. Programs like the CDC’s Hear Her Campaign aim to amplify their voices and improve outcomes.
Medicaid plays a critical role, funding 65% of births to Black mothers. Yet proposed cuts threaten its stability. Being uninsured before pregnancy increases risks, and one-third of women in the Medicaid coverage gap are Black.
Access to abortion care is another key factor. Nearly 60% of Black women live in states with abortion restrictions. The deaths of Amber Thurman and Candi Miller in Georgia—where abortion bans and the dismantling of maternal mortality review committees intersect—highlight the deadly consequences.
Diversifying the perinatal workforce and expanding doula care are also vital steps. Racially concordant care improves outcomes, but Black providers remain underrepresented.
See: “Black Maternal Mortality Is Still Rising. What Can Be Done?” (February 14, 2025)
