Dr. Jennifer Nash: Black maternal mortality rates are a national embarrassment. Doulas can help

Dr. Jennifer Nash shared an opinion in the San Fransciso Chronicle on the state of black maternal mortality rates in the United States. 

Black maternal mortality rates are a national embarrassment. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that Black mothers are three times more likely to die from a pregnancy related cause than white mothers. Earlier this year, the American Medical Association described a “culture of disrespect” that marks Black mothers’ experiences with conventional medicine.

In response to this data, a host of technological innovations designed to support Black birthers have been proposed. But the most promising innovation is decidedly low-tech: birth doulas — trained, nonclinical, professionals who support and advocate on behalf of birthing people before, during and after childbirth. Learn more here.