Black mothers from across region attend meeting to discuss fears of maternal health disparities – WPXI

PITTSBURGH — Pittsburgh has been considered one of the most livable cities for some, but for black women, especially those waiting, that’s not the case. In fact, black women in Pittsburgh are more likely to die in pregnancy than their peers in 97% of other US cities.

On Tuesday afternoon, when a group of medical experts came together to host a baby shower of resources and tools to help expectant mothers, dozens of women showed up.

Black moms from across the region packed the Kingsley Association for Beverly’s Birthdays Community Baby Shower, a resource event where moms share their fears, ask questions and receive important tools as they embark on their new chapter. of motherhood.

“I stopped working when I was seven months old because it was too much for me. My blood pressure was so high,” said Aaliyah Springs, a first-time mother.

Springs has spent more than 30 hours in labor with her baby girl.

Springs came to today’s event because she wants more children and more control over her future pregnancies, she said.

“Learning different things about safety, health and what to look for as a new mom,” Springs said.

Dr Sharee Livingston, an obstetrician-gynecologist at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, said improving black maternal health – where black women are three to four times more likely to die during childbirth, is a priority that can only be addressed when healthcare professionals listen.

“Current and historical inequalities, as well as systemic racism, all play a role … in these disproportionate rates,” Livingston said.

While licensed clinician Chaunda Cunningham said increasing representation would help improve outcomes for women of color.

“If you don’t have anyone in the room that you can connect with, that’s going to knock you out of your mindset,” Cunningham said. “You won’t be able to focus like you would if you had someone who looked like you, someone you respected or shared experiences with.”

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