Black Women Matter.

Section 1: The Historical Context

The mistreatment of black women during childbirth is not a new phenomenon. The United States has a long history of exploiting black women's bodies for medical experimentation and research. For example, J. Marion Sims, known as the "father of gynecology," performed experimental surgeries on enslaved black women without anesthesia. The legacy of this history is that black women's pain is often dismissed and ignored in the medical field. This bias contributes to the higher rates of maternal mortality and morbidity among black women.

Furthermore, the medical field has a long history of ignoring the needs of black women. Even today, many black women are not taken seriously when they report symptoms of pregnancy-related complications. This lack of attention and care can lead to severe consequences, including death.

The historical context of the mistreatment of black women in the medical field helps to explain why black women are so vulnerable during pregnancy and childbirth. The implicit biases and systemic racism that are ingrained in our healthcare system must be addressed to ensure that black women receive the care they need and deserve.

Section 2: The Impact of Racism and Implicit Bias on Black Women

The impact of racism and implicit bias on black women during pregnancy and childbirth cannot be overstated. Studies have shown that black women are less likely to receive pain medication during labor and delivery, even when they are reporting severe pain. This disparity is due, in part, to the myth that black women have a higher pain tolerance than white women. This myth is rooted in racist stereotypes and has no basis in fact.

Furthermore, black women are more likely to experience complications during pregnancy and childbirth, including hypertension, gestational diabetes, and preterm labor. These complications can be life-threatening if not properly diagnosed and treated. However, black women are often not given the same level of care and attention as white women, leading to higher rates of maternal mortality and morbidity.

The impact of racism and implicit bias on black women's health during pregnancy and childbirth is a public health crisis. It is imperative that we address this issue through education, advocacy, and policy change.

Section 3: What Can Be Done?

The first step in addressing the issue of maternal mortality and morbidity among black women is to acknowledge the problem. We must recognize that systemic racism and implicit bias exist within our healthcare system and take steps to address them. This can be done through increased education and training for healthcare providers on the specific needs of black women during pregnancy and childbirth.

Additionally, black women need to be empowered to advocate for themselves and their health. This can be done by providing access to resources and support, such as doulas and midwives, who can provide culturally competent care and serve as advocates for black women in the medical field.

Finally, policy change is necessary to address the issue of maternal mortality and morbidity among black women. This can include increasing funding for maternal health programs, expanding Medicaid coverage, and implementing implicit bias training for healthcare providers.

The issue of maternal mortality and morbidity among black women during pregnancy and childbirth is a complex and multifaceted problem. However, it is a problem that can and must be addressed. By acknowledging the historical context of the mistreatment of black women in the medical field, recognizing the impact of racism and implicit bias on black women's health, and taking concrete steps to address these issues, we can work towards ensuring that black women receive the care they need and deserve during pregnancy and childbirth.