Maternal Health
Resources For Black Birthing People
Support, information, and tools for navigating pregnancy, birth, and recovery with more clarity and confidence.
Many of us have questions. Few of us feel heard.
Black birthing people face higher risks, not because of their bodies, but because of the care they receive. That doesn’t mean birth has to be scary. It means we all need better tools, more open conversations, and support that shows up when it matters.
This program exists to offer that support — through resources, storytelling, events, and ongoing work grounded in care, clarity, and community.
Watch our podcast episode
Black birthing people in the U.S. are three to four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications than their white counterparts.
In this special episode of the BLKHLTH podcast, we confront the devastating disparities in maternal health and amplify the voices that too often go unheard.
Resources for Birthing People
Helpful tools to guide your journey
Whether you’re pregnant now, planning to be, or recently gave birth — these resources can help you understand what to expect, what to watch for, and how to speak up if something feels off.
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Conversation Guide
Helps you prepare for prenatal or postpartum visits by offering questions and talking points you can bring to your provider.
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Urgent Warning Signs
Outlines critical symptoms that may signal serious health issues during or after pregnancy, so you know when to seek help right away.
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Personal Stories
Real experiences from people who’ve faced complications, offering perspective and validation if you’re going through something similar.
Important Terms and Data
What We Measure, We Can Change
Key definitions that help explain risk, outcomes, and why this work matters.
Maternal Mortality
The number of birthing people who die from causes related to pregnancy or childbirth. This includes deaths that happen up to 42 days after a pregnancy ends, no matter when or where the complication occurred.
(HMHB, 2022)
Black Birthing People
In Georgia, the maternal death rate is 33.9 per 100,000 live births — but for Black birthing people, that rate jumps to 48.6. These aren’t just numbers. They reflect lives cut short, families affected, and the urgent need for change.
(GA DPH)
Maternal Morbidity
Refers to serious health complications during pregnancy, labor, or recovery — like ICU admissions, ruptured uterus, or unplanned surgeries. These are moments where survival is possible, but the harm is still deep.
(HMHB, 2022)
Tips for partners, friends, and family
☝🏾 Learn the Signs
Familiarize yourself with the urgent warning signs that may signal serious complications.
✌🏾 Listen and Encourage Action
Take their concerns seriously. If something feels off, encourage them to contact a provider.
👌🏾 Don’t Wait in an Emergency
If they’re showing warning signs, help them get medical care immediately.
Resources For Health Care Professionals
Tools for Providers Who Want to Do Better
Practical tools and clinical guidance to help you improve outcomes, build trust, and better support Black birthing people through every stage of care.
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CDC Hear Her Campaign Toolkit
Communication tools, printable materials, and continuing education to help providers recognize urgent symptoms and listen more effectively.
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Guidance for OB-GYNs
Best practices and clinical guidance to improve care and outcomes for pregnant and postpartum patients.
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Information for Pediatricians
Resources that highlight the connection between postpartum health and pediatric visits, especially in the early weeks after birth.
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Support for All Providers
Whether you’re a nurse, midwife, or general practitioner, these tools can help you offer more responsive, culturally grounded care.