Childbirth Complication Rates for Black, Hispanic Women Higher than Others

Black women under the age of 24 are more likely to experience severe childbirth complications than white women over the age of 35 – an age group usually considered high risk, according to a new study from the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association (BCBSA).

Data shows the rates of childbirth complications have been increasing for women of color. In the last two years, the rate of Hispanic women with severe childbirth complications increased 19%.

“There is an urgent maternal health crisis in our country,” said Kim Keck, president and CEO of BCBSA. “It is unconscionable that women of color face a greater risk of childbirth complications compared to white women. We must confront health disparities across the board to change the trajectory.”

The study focuses on the rate of childbirth complications measured by the CDC’s Severe Maternal Morbidity Measure (SMM) which includes 21 different adverse events or unexpected outcomes from labor and delivery with significant short- or long-term consequences to a woman’s health, and in some cases, may lead to death.

SMM rates are 63% higher for women in majority Black communities and 32% higher for women in majority Hispanic communities when compared to majority white communities.

Additionally, BCBSA surveyed 750 women about their pregnancy and childbirth care experience in the last year, representing commercial, Medicaid, Medicare and uninsured individuals. Sixty-two percent of Black mothers were able to complete all recommended prenatal visits, citing transportation barriers or scheduling conflicts.

Compared to white women, Black and Hispanic women reported feeling less confident they would receive the care they need. Fewer Black mothers reported feeling they can speak openly with their provider, or felt that their provider spent enough time with them.

“The disparities we see in maternal healthcare are the result of a complex fabric of social, racial and economic injustice – and require a new system of health caring, not just health care,” said Keck. “Every mother deserves to have the best care at every stage of their pregnancy. This is why Blue Cross and Blue Shield companies have committed to reducing racial disparities in maternal health by 50% in five years.”

BCBS companies have started the work to reduce these disparities and prevent dangerous and tragic outcomes for women of color. This includes identifying women at risk of SMM and providing one-on-one coaching to manage chronic conditions during pregnancy, addressing underlying social needs that have a significant impact on health and providing community support, such as doulas, to mothers throughout their pre- and postnatal journeys.