In honor of Black Maternal Health Week, Mamas Facing Forward wants to recognize the disparities that Black Mamas are still facing today when it comes to maternal healthcare. Below we want to share some key statistics and resources pertaining to Black Maternal Health – today we are focusing on postpartum care. We encourage you to head over to the Black Mamas Matter Alliance to learn more.
Maternal Mental Health
Black mothers are more likely to suffer from PMADs (Perinatal Mood and
Anxiety Disorders) like postpartum depression, in silence, and without clinical help. (Source: NCBI)
Breastfeeding
Among all infants, Black infants had a significantly lower rate of exclusive
breastfeeding at age 3 months (39.3%) than did White infants (50.6%); at age 6 months, the rates of any breastfeeding were 49.3% among black infants and 60.0% among White infants. (Source: CDC)
Hospitals in areas with higher percentages of Black residents were less likely to provide recommended maternity care practices supportive of breastfeeding. (Source: CDC)
Resources
Center for Black Women’s Wellness
Black Mother’s Breastfeeding Association
