If you are expecting, or currently have a baby, you deserve the best care possible. Health care, including prenatal care, cannot reverse the effects of a lifetime of racism. But respectful and quality care is still critical to your and your baby’s good health.
It is not fair that Black moms can do all the “right” things and
still have poor birth outcomes. Until we eliminate systemic racism in
our institutions, including in healthcare, these inequities will
continue. Start by taking steps to know your rights and ensure a
healthy birth experience to protect tomorrow’s Black Legacy.
California’s Black women are over 3 times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than White women. Based on comparison of African-American/Black and White 2019-2021 average pregnancy-related mortality ratios (49.7 vs. 14.0 deaths per 100,000 live births, respectively). Data from California Department of Public Health, California Pregnancy Mortality Surveillance System. Accessed at https://www.cdph.ca.gov/Programs/CFH/DMCAH/surveillance/Pages/Pregnancy-Related-Mortality.aspx
Black infants in San Diego County are about 50% more likely to be born premature and twice as likely to be born with low birthweight than White infants. Based on comparison of African-American/Black and White 2020-2022 average preterm birth rates (10.9% vs. 7.2%, respectively) and low birthweight rates (10.2% vs. 5.2%, respectively). Data from State of California, Department of Public Health, Center for Health Statistics and Informatics, California Comprehensive Birth Files. Statistics prepared by County of San Diego, Health and Human Services Agency, Public Health Services
African-American women are 12% less likely than White women to receive prenatal care starting in the first trimester – 80.6% compared to 91.8%. Based on comparison of African-American/Black and White 2020-2022 average first trimester prenatal care initiation rates (80.6% vs. 91.8%, respectively). Data from State of California, Department of Public Health, Center for Health Statistics and Informatics, California Comprehensive Birth Files. Statistics prepared by County of San Diego, Health and Human Services Agency, Public Health Services.
Inequities in maternal and infant health outcomes frequently persist irrespective of income or education. An infant of an African-American woman with a college degree is more likely to die than one of a White woman who graduated high school. Much research has shown that structural racism drives the inequities. For example, averaging 2017-2018, California’s Black-White disparity in infant mortality was greater among college-educated women than among women with less than a high school education (college-educated rates were 5.0 vs. 2.0 deaths per 1,000 live births, respectively, a 1.6-fold difference, while rates for less than high school were 10.7 vs. 6.7 deaths per 1,000 live births, respectively, a 2.5-fold difference). Source: Centering Black Mothers in California: Insights into Racism, Health, and Well-being for Black Women and Infants. Sacramento, CA: California Department of Public Health, Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health Division; 2023.
The following are some resources from the March of Dimes and other sources related to taking care of yourself and planning for your family’s baby. Many links include videos and infographics for more information. Be sure to also review our Know Your Rights document to be aware of the best types of care and treatment during your pregnancy and birth.
Before and During Pregnancy
Giving Birth
After Your Baby is Born
COVID-19
- What You Need to Know About COVID-19’s Impact on Moms and Babies
- Infographic: COVID-19 Things to Know if You’re Pregnant
- A documentary made by the family members of the men in the Tuskegee study. Included in the link is the video series as well as PSAs from the Ad Council. All are efforts to shift the narrative from using the study as a justification for refusing the COVID vaccine to a rationale for why it is vital now for African Americans to take advantage of the vaccine after their ancestors were denied treatment.
Mental Health and Self Care
- What is Postpartum Depression?
- Black Mental Wellness Website and Instagram
- NAMI Resources and Information for Black/African-American individuals
- Black Female Therapists Instagram
- Black Virtual Therapist Network
- Inclusive Therapists
- Therapy for Black Men
- LGBTQ Therapists of Color
- Breaking Down Barriers
- It’s Up to Us
Local Support:
Submit a Complaint:
Research shows that Black moms face clear, race-based inequalities. If you received poor treatment during your pregnancy or childbirth experience, it is important you let your health plan know. You’ll find resources to respond, regardless of your insurance status. Below is information to make a complaint, based on your health insurance plan.
"I almost died after giving birth to my daughter, Olympia. Yet I consider
myself fortunate…"
Serena Williams, What My Life-threatening Experience Taught Me About Giving Birth
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