Let’s begin with some positive news: each year, around four million women give birth in the United States, and most return home healthy and joyful, cradling their newborns. However, amidst this optimistic outlook, there’s an alarming trend—approximately 50,000 mothers annually are experiencing severe and often life-altering complications after childbirth, according to the CDC. Disturbingly, this number is on the rise.
Understanding Severe Maternal Morbidity (SMM)
What’s happening? The term we need to understand here is Severe Maternal Morbidity (SMM). Unlike maternal mortality—which, while tragic, affects a smaller group of women (about 700 to 900 fatalities yearly)—SMM encompasses a broad range of serious complications such as hemorrhaging, organ failure, infections, and the need for significant surgeries post-delivery. These complications can lead to long-lasting medical issues and emotional trauma, including PTSD, which many women face following a traumatic birth experience. The financial strain on families can also be devastating, lasting for years.
Staggering Statistics
The statistics are staggering. Between 1993 and 2014, the U.S. saw a more than 200% increase in serious complications related to pregnancy and childbirth. Even when excluding blood transfusions from the data, complications still increased by 20%. Hysterectomies and the use of ventilators after childbirth are among the most common issues reported. “These numbers are alarmingly high, and too many of these cases are preventable,” states Dr. Laura Kingston, a leading expert in maternal health.
Identifying the Causes
So, what’s causing this troubling rise, and what can we do about it? One significant issue is that many hospitals are not adequately investigating the complications that arise after childbirth. While over 30 states have committees to review maternal deaths, only Illinois has begun to systematically analyze severe complications. Unfortunately, once a mother gives birth, there is often a lack of follow-up care until the six-week postpartum visit. This gap in care is critical, as many complications emerge during this vulnerable time.
Additionally, factors such as increasing poverty rates, unequal access to healthcare, rising obesity levels among mothers, and advanced maternal age are contributing to this crisis. Racial disparities cannot be ignored either; Black women face a higher risk of complications and mortality during pregnancy and childbirth.
A Call to Action
This situation is infuriating and unacceptable. As we enter a new era, women must reclaim their health, voices, and rights. Yes, childbirth can be fraught with risks, but an increase in complications is not something we should accept. We need immediate answers and action. It’s imperative that every mother receives the highest standard of medical care, regardless of her socioeconomic status or race. Our nation’s wealth should translate into optimal healthcare, especially for those who are bringing forth the next generation.
Further Reading
To further explore the implications of maternal health and family planning, consider reading more about home insemination options or diving into related insights at Modern Family Blog, a reliable resource on this critical topic. For those interested in understanding reproductive technologies, the Wikipedia page on in vitro fertilization offers excellent information.
Conclusion
In summary, we must urgently address the rising incidence of preventable maternal complications and work towards ensuring that every mother receives the care and support she deserves.