We know pregnancy for Black people is risky, but it shouldn't be.
Launched during Black Maternal Health Week in 2023, we created an in-person interactive experience to better understand the challenges our community faces throughout their pregnancy, birthing, and parenting journeys.Â
Thank you to those who shared your perspectives along the way! Check out the latest highlights from our Mommy Listening Tour. Â
TRUST MATTERS: Here's where you turn for information
75%
OB/GYNs
46%
Pregnancy Apps
42%
Family/Friends
42%
Google
18%
Doula/Midwives
12%
Social Media
Unfortunately, nearly 2% of you stated that you were unsure where to turn for trusted information and guidance when you have questions related to pregnancy and childbirth.Â
CLINICAL RESEARCH: To participate or not to while pregnant?
I would not participate while pregnant, maybe after
7%
I'm unsure what clinical research is
4%
COMMUNITY: The stuff that couldn't be quantified
Some common themes emerged as we listened, particularly around these topics:
Nontraditional births
Fertility issues in Black moms
Discrimination in the healthcare system
Accessing doctors that listen
Advocating for ourselves; doing the research
The importance of community
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Some other topics discussed included:Â
How to support birthing persons
The health of the baby being the priority
Health conditions that made getting pregnant or staying pregnant difficult
Messages of support for dads and women of color working in healthcare
The most fulfilling/rewarding parts of being a parent
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What we also know
The Mommy Listening Tour isn't limited to our in-person insights. We've heard you loud and clear online too. Here are the top topics discussed across popular social media platforms.
19%
Concerns with Preconception
It was so hard for me to watch ole girl speak about dwindling uterus to a woman with fibroids. Cuz so many black women deal with infertility issues.
37%
Navigating Prenatal Care
I would prefer a provider who is a black woman to work with me through my pregnancy if possible. I'm not having much luck through Google thus far.
10%
Getting through Childbirth
I would emphasize getting a doula. I had a great dr, but they are not on call 24/7. My first on call dr was racist af and just so rude to me before labor and used my fear as a first time mother to push a c-section.
34%
Managing Postpartum Challenges
After giving birth I felt very disconnected with my newbown baby and family. I felt lonely and no matter how hard I tried to feel normal again nothing seemed to work.