November 13th, 2024

Black Women, Pregnancy and Death

 

By Chelsea Davis-Bibb

When a new baby is on the way, there is a lot of excitement. However, the process to get the baby here safely can be stressful, overwhelming and sadly, even deadly.

The CDC (Center for Disease Control) reported that “women in the U.S. are more likely to die from childbirth or a pregnancy related cause than other women in the developed world.” As a nation that is developed and filled with many technological advances, you would think that this would not be the case.

In addition, “The risk of pregnancy-related deaths for Black women is 3 to 4 times higher than those of White women.” Why is this?

I recently became a mother to a beautiful baby girl on July 11th. I didn’t have the easiest pregnancy, but no one could have prepared me for what was to come. I went into labor thinking I was going to have a normal delivery.

Shortly thereafter, my water broke, things started to go downhill. Several times, my daughter’s heart rate continued to drop. The nurses would put me in different positions to get her rate stabilized, but shortly after they did, it would just drop again. They even gave me medicine to speed the labor process up, but I wouldn’t dilate past four centimeters.

After ten hours in, a fever and another heart rate drop later, the doctor came rushing in and said “we have to take her.” I knew what that meant right away, a C-section. The tears immediately rushed down my face as terror filled my heart. This was my biggest fear as I had never had surgery before, and it seemed as if my nightmare had turned into my reality.

The umbilical cord was wrapped around my daughter’s neck. Thankfully, everything went well and my baby and I are doing well. But what if everything didn’t go well? What if things went wrong? After reading about the data from the CDC, I couldn’t help but think about the “what ifs?” I do want another child one day, and even though I can’t live in fear, this research is something that will stick with me.

The idea that Black women are more at risk at facing a pregnancy related death is baffling, and even though there may not be a definite answer, there are a few things that I found. For one, overall health may be a factor. How we as Black women take care of ourselves is very important.

There are so many health issues that occurs in the Black race like high blood pressure, and diabetes, just to name a few, and this could impact the pregnancy.

In addition, there is a lot of poverty within the Black race, so women of color may not have access to proper health care. There was also a discussion about the hospital a woman selects and the care she receives. When you are pregnant there are many appointments that need to be attended and etc., but, if a woman does not have access to insurance, she may not be able to provide good health care for herself or her baby.

Having a baby is not cheap, so if money is an issue, the woman may not be as willing to receive the health care that is needed. Although these are just a few factors, genetics and the environment can also play a big role in this as well.

There is so much that can go wrong during pregnancy, delivery, and even after birth, and in some situations, some things can’t be prevented. One thing I found interesting was that women are still at risk of dying up to a year after giving birth. My daughter is about to turn 4 months old, so that means I am still at risk.

I am not a doctor, but there are a few things that women can and should do in order to increase their chances of having a safe delivery and healthy life. It is important that women take care of themselves not only during the pregnancy, but before and after. This includes working out, eating right and getting the proper amount of rest. During pregnancy, it is also imperative that women go to all appointments and take their pre-natal vitamins.

In addition, women need to find a doctor that is knowledgeable, experienced and someone they feel like they can trust. If you sense that something may be wrong or not seem right, a woman should not take the risk of being okay, but should go to the doctor immediately.

Most importantly, women need to educate themselves about the process it takes to have a baby and even the process that occurs after delivery. When I found out I was pregnant, I immediately started reading about the different aspects of pregnancy.

I even attended a few classes. I did not want to go into the process blind, and I am glad I attended the classes. If God blesses us to give birth, we must do whatever we can to take care of ourselves so that we can enjoy the little bundle of joy long after delivery.

 

October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com

As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.

Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.

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