Pregnancy is a time of immense joy for many families. For Black women, however, pregnancy can also be a great worry. Black women are more likely to experience pregnancy complications than any other demographic group. In fact, pregnancy complications are the leading cause of death for Black women in the United States. The most common complications include high blood pressure, preeclampsia, and gestational diabetes. These conditions can lead to serious health problems for both mother and child and, in some cases, can even be fatal.
As a result, it is essential for Black women to receive regular prenatal care and to be aware of the signs and symptoms of pregnancy complications. By doing so, they can help to ensure a healthy pregnancy for themselves and their babies.
7 Pregnancy-Related Complications Common to Black Women
- Gestational diabetes
Gestational diabetes is one of the pregnancy complications that occurs when blood sugar levels become too high. It is common in Black women and can lead to serious health complications for both mother and child. Left untreated, gestational diabetes can cause pre-eclampsia, characterized by high blood pressure and protein in the urine.
Pre-eclampsia can be fatal and is the leading cause of maternal death in the United States. Gestational diabetes can also increase the risk of cesarean delivery, birth defects, and macrosomia (a condition in which babies are larger than average). If you are Black and pregnant, it is important to be aware of the risks of gestational diabetes and talk to your doctor about managing your blood sugar levels during pregnancy.
- High blood pressure
High blood pressure is one of the most common pregnancy complications, and Black women are especially at risk. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Black women are two to three times more likely to develop high blood pressure during pregnancy than white women. This increased risk is likely due to genetic predisposition, chronic stress, and socioeconomic disparities.
While high blood pressure can be dangerous for both mother and child, treatments can help manage the condition. Hospitalization may be necessary in some cases, such as when blood pressure is extremely high. However, with early diagnosis and proper treatment, most women with high blood pressure will go on to have healthy pregnancies.
- Preeclampsia
Preeclampsia is a medical condition that can occur during pregnancy. It is characterized by high blood pressure, protein in the urine, and edema, which is swelling caused by excessive fluid in the body tissues. Preeclampsia typically happens after the 20th week of gestation, ranging from mild to severe. For some women, preeclampsia leads to preterm labor, which is when labor begins before 37 weeks of gestation.
Preeclampsia can also cause serious health complications for the mother and the baby, including organ damage, stroke, and even death. Black women are at an increased risk for preeclampsia and are more likely to experience severe preeclampsia. As a result, it is important for Black women who are pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant to speak with their healthcare provider about their risks for preeclampsia.
- Preterm labor
Preterm labor is one of the most common pregnancy complications, and Black women are disproportionately affected. According to the CDC, Black women are 50% more likely to experience preterm labor than white women. This disparity is thought to be due to various factors, including systemic racism, stress, and socioeconomic disparities. For example, Black women are more likely to live in poverty and lack access to quality health care. These conditions can lead to poor nutrition and chronic stress, increasing the risk of preterm labor.
In addition, racism can be a source of stress contributing to preterm labor. The good news is that there are steps that Black women can take to reduce their risk of preterm labor, such as practicing relaxation techniques and getting regular exercise. By understanding the risks and taking steps to reduce them, Black women can help improve their chances of a healthy pregnancy.
- Postpartum hemorrhage
Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is one of the most common pregnancy complications, and it is particularly common in Black women. PPH can occur when the placenta detaches from the uterine wall before delivery or when blood vessels in the uterus tear during delivery. PPH can also be caused by an incompetent cervix, which is more common in Black women.
Symptoms of PPH include heavy bleeding, dizziness, and weakness. PPH can be life-threatening, so it is important for Black women to be aware of the signs and symptoms. If you experience any of these symptoms after giving birth, seek medical help immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are essential for a good outcome.
- Hypertension
Hypertension is a pregnancy complication that is common in Black women. Hypertension can lead to serious health problems for both the mother and the baby. If not treated, it can cause pre-eclampsia, a condition that can be life-threatening. hypertension can also cause the baby to be born early or to have a low birth weight.
Many things can contribute to hypertension in pregnant Black women, including obesity, stress, and diabetes. It is important for Black women who are pregnant to monitor their blood pressure and to seek medical attention if it becomes elevated. By doing so, they can help to ensure a healthy pregnancy for both themselves and their babies.
- Heart disease
While pregnancy complications can occur in any woman, regardless of race, Black women are more likely to experience certain complications, including heart disease. Heart disease is a term that covers a range of conditions that affect the heart, from high blood pressure to heart attacks. These conditions can be dangerous for both mother and child, and pregnant Black women are at a higher risk for developing them.
This is partly because Black women are more likely to have underlying health conditions like diabetes or obesity. But it is also because Black women face unique stressors, such as racism and discrimination. These stressors can take a toll on the body and increase the risk of heart disease. As a result, it is important for Black women to be aware of their risks and take steps to protect their heart health.
Get Access to Black Maternal Healthcare
Programs like Mama Thrive Telehealth are working to improve black maternal health outcomes. Mama Thrive provides pregnant women and new mothers quality healthcare through telehealth medicine. This allows them to receive care from providers who understand their unique needs and can offer culturally competent care. In addition, Mama Thrive offers various other services to support black maternal health, such as nutrition counseling, stress management, and postpartum support.
If you are a pregnant black woman or have recently given birth, please consider enrolling in the Mama Thrive Telehealth Program. It could be the key to a healthy pregnancy and delivery for you and your baby.
