A recent report from the Gender Equity Policy Institute reveals alarming disparities in pregnancy-related deaths among different racial and ethnic groups in the United States. Pregnant individuals in states with abortion bans are nearly twice as likely to die during pregnancy or shortly after giving birth compared to those in states where abortion access is protected. The risk is particularly severe for Black women, who are 3.3 times more likely to die than White women in states with abortion bans.
The report, which analyzed data from 2019 to 2023, highlights the growing divide in maternal health outcomes since the overturn of Roe v. Wade. States that have maintained abortion access have seen a decline in pregnancy-related deaths, while states like Texas, which have implemented strict abortion bans, have experienced significant increases. In Texas, pregnancy-related deaths surged by 56% in 2022, far exceeding the national increase of 11%.
Nancy Cohen, founder of the Gender Equity Policy Institute, underscores the stark contrast in reproductive health across the country. She states, “There are two Americas for reproductive-aged women and people who can become pregnant in the United States. One America, where you’re at serious risk of major health complications or death if you become pregnant, and one where you’re most likely to have a positive birth experience, a healthy pregnancy and a healthy child.”
The report also notes that health care providers face challenges due to vague and confusing language in abortion laws, often delaying critical interventions until it is too late. This situation exacerbates existing racial disparities in maternal health, with Black, White, and Latina women all at greater risk of death in states with abortion bans.
See: “Abortion bans increase pregnancy-related deaths” (April 23, 2025)
