Black Women 5 Times More Likely To Die Or Stillbirth
"Black women are five times more likely to die than white women during pregnancy and childbirth. This is a longstanding issue rooted in systemic racism, not individual failings." Elsie Gayle, Midwife
The alarming statistic that Black women in the UK are five times more likely to die during pregnancy or childbirth than their white counterparts calls for urgent attention and action. This stark disparity is a result of systemic racism, not individual health factors. As midwife Elsie Gayle highlights, healthcare professionals must recognise the deep-rooted inequalities embedded in our healthcare system. Black women’s voices are often dismissed or their pain minimised, leading to devastating consequences that can—and must—be prevented.
This is a call to all nurses and healthcare professionals: we are uniquely positioned to drive change and ensure that every woman, regardless of race, receives the high-quality care she deserves. This starts with listening to Black women, acknowledging their experiences, and providing culturally competent care that recognises the specific challenges they face.
The time to act is now. We cannot be silent while systemic racism continues to endanger the lives of Black women and their babies. By equipping ourselves with knowledge and advocating for reforms, we can be part of the solution. Nurses are the backbone of maternal care, and our influence can shape the future of healthcare equity.
The full blog explores how we can contribute to dismantling these disparities and ensuring that Black maternal health becomes a priority across the healthcare system. Learn more about the steps we can take and the resources available to make a difference by reading the full blog at: https://www.nbwn.org/post/fivetimesmorelikely.
Let's share this message widely. Talk to your colleagues, engage in conversations, and take proactive steps in your practice. Together, we can turn the tide on this crisis and make sure no woman is left behind.