Medical Malpractice Lawyer

Every year in the United States, hundreds of women die during pregnancy or in the year after pregnancy. However, even more alarming is the fact that Black women in the United States are almost three times more likely to die during pregnancy or delivery than White women. This is due to multiple factors including the difference in quality healthcare, underlying chronic and/or preexisting conditions, and existing racial disparities. In fact, according to a recent publication by the Centers for Disease and Control Prevention (the CDC), over 80% or roughly 4 in 5 pregnancy-related deaths were determined to be preventable. Our friends at Mossing & Navarre, LLC dive into the circumstances around these deaths below.

Black women also experience preventable pregnancy-related complications at higher rates than White women. For many of these medical conditions, timely intervention is crucial and can aid in reducing pregnancy-related deaths. Being aware of the warning signs and working closely with a prenatal care provider to treat these conditions early on may help prevent pregnancy-related risks and complications. 

The leading causes of maternal death for Black women include:

  • Preeclampsia/eclampsia

Preeclampsia and eclampsia are pregnancy conditions which cause high blood pressure. Preeclampsia is the leading cause for maternal deaths among black women. Preeclampsia can happen during pregnancy or after giving birth (postpartum preeclampsia). If it is untreated, it can lead to death for both the mother and baby.

  • Postpartum Cardiomyopathy

Postpartum cardiomyopathy is a rare form of heart failure in which a pregnant woman’s heart becomes weakened and enlarged. It develops sometime during the final month of pregnancy through about 5 months after delivery and can result in death.

  • Embolism

Amniotic fluid embolism is a life-threatening complication which can occur during delivery or shortly after giving birth. A pulmonary embolism is the sudden blockage of an artery in the lung.

  • Post-Partum Hemorrhage

Postpartum hemorrhage is heavy bleeding which usually occurs within 24 hours of giving birth but can remain a risk for up to 12 weeks after giving birth. If left untreated, it can lead to low blood pressure and death.

In order to prevent pregnancy-related deaths, it is important to be proactive, recognize urgent maternal warning signs and symptoms, receive timely treatment and quality care, and know what questions to ask your healthcare provider. 

The following are some urgent maternal warning signs to be aware of and seek immediate medical attention for:

  • severe headache

  • extreme swelling of hands or face

  • trouble breathing

  • heavy vaginal bleeding or discharge

  • overwhelming tiredness 

Other Steps to Take:

  • Ask family members about pregnancy problems they have experienced because some pregnancy complications run in the family. Identifying these conditions and learning the signs and symptoms can help you spot these conditions early on and get treatment.
  • Be proactive and consistent with prenatal checkups. Prenatal checkups are important because it will allow your health care provider to recognize, treat and manage any health conditions that may arise and affect your pregnancy.
  • Talk to your health provider to discuss any health concerns or questions you have. 

If you or a loved one has been impacted by a pregnancy-related death, you may have questions. Contact a medical malpractice attorney for a confidential consultation to discuss your case.