BUFFALO, N.Y. (WKBW) — A new study shows nearly 80% of maternal deaths are preventable, with most occurring during postpartum rather than during pregnancy.
Additionally, Black women are four times more likely to die during pregnancy, according to the New York State Department of Health.
What's causing this?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention claim a lack of adequate resources to address maternal complications is a major factor.
Heather Giuseppetti gave birth to her first child three years ago.
"I had no symptoms at all, which was pretty awesome," Giuseppetti said.
However, the Buffalo mother's postpartum experience was difficult.
"I had postpartum depression. I was a scared mom. I didn't know what I was doing," Giuseppetti said. "My husband worked a lot, so it was just me and the baby."
Giuseppetti had her second child three months ago and said that pregnancy was different.
"I had issues throughout the whole pregnancy," she said. "That was very difficult with being pregnant and having a toddler too."
This time around, Giuseppetti said having support helped.
"I was very lucky to have a lot of friends, neighbors who came together and helped me throughout the whole pregnancy," she said. "They mean it when they say, it takes a village."
She encourages new mothers to talk about the struggles of pregnancy and postpartum.
"It's okay to not be okay with being pregnant," Giuseppetti said. "There are people who have to be in the hospital for months because of the risks they're experiencing. And after, your hormones are trying to get back to normal."
Dr. Jenna Silverstein, a maternal-fetal medicine specialist at Sisters of Charity Hospital, said various preexisting conditions can increase pregnancy risks.
"Things like diabetes or high blood pressure are more common, but we also see rarer conditions like thyroid issues or cancers," Dr. Silverstein said.
She said Sisters Hospital offers preconception visits to address the potential risks.
"We can help determine if pregnancy is safe and ensure the timing is right," Dr. Silverstein said. "We'll also check that your medications are safe."
She also emphasized the importance of self-advocacy for pregnant women.
"Trust yourself. You are your best advocate," she said. "If something feels wrong, talk to your doctor, midwife, or doula and voice your concerns."
As of March 1, 2024, all state Medicaid Members are eligible for free doula services during pregnancy and 12 months postpartum.
"We've been shown to decrease maternal mortality," Sydney Littlejohn with Calming Nature said. "That's been widespread nationwide, but here in New York State, it's five times higher than any other state."
What's a doula?
Njeri Motley, also with Calming Nature, said doulas provide education and emotional and physical support.
"Help her within the home with whatever task she needs to do, concerning the baby," Motley said. "Also outsourcing her different community services where she can get extensional support."