Black women turn to midwives, doulas amid disproportionate maternal death rate l GMA

Black mothers are more likely to die in childbirth and suffer pregnancy complications in the U.S., according to the CDC.
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[@apara2005]

This is across all medical issues. We aren't taken seriously when we are having mental health issues, pain, sickness, etc. I recently had a medical issue and was in extreme pain and had to beg for help (and no, i wasnt asking for pain medication, i wanted to know what was causing the pain. I wanted test ran)...I finally found a doctor who listened. It sad our pain and sickness is disregarded.

[@latoyatangelo]

WE are disregarded….not just our pain.

[@prncessbaby16]

Going through this now at 38 weeks pregnant and ready to fire my current provider and get a new one

[@LJ77347]

Listen closely to how they say black women… it’s like bbbbbbblllllllllaaaaaaaack women. Why do they say it like that?

[@blackqueen164]

Yes, everytime I go to the ER on the military base, I have to deal with white doctors trying to dismiss my pain. I'm tired of these racist fools, it's way past time to get our own.

[@erikabulsara538]

It is your responsibility to find a doctor that works for you. You can’t blame anybody else. A large portion of the women in question here are probably in welfare. It is their responsibility to do their homework even if they don’t pay for the services.

[@teejack8108]

Prayers for all the Black mothers giving birth 🙏🏾

[@jessicamarie8299]

All women!

[@ronnie2699]

@@jessicamarie8299 shut up

[@teejack8108]

@@jessicamarie8299 Are you trying to turn this into a 'All Lives Matter' situation? Do you see that the problem is about Black Women?

[@janayserrano]

@@jessicamarie8299 shut up Jessica. I gave birth last year and I was denied the epidural because my nurse said I was “strong and don’t need it”. Giving birth to my son was literally the worst pain I’ve ever felt in my life. Next pregnancy I will go to an all black staff or doula. This isn’t about “all women” when black women have the highest rates of being denied or ignored.

[@KKKtrucky2]

@@jessicamarie8299 All lives matter. All..... lives matter blah blah blah blah blah blah blah blah lmfao you people crack me the fuck up. I'm pretty sure you just be stalking anything on KZbin about black women. Sad. Becky!

[@kellym.6777]

I recently heardabout Serena Williams childbirth story and it's just terrifying! Her story happened to so many black women but the fact that it happened to her with all her money, fame and accolades is just.. terrifying.

[@maxinefowler1186]

This just keeps going on & on that shows how people sit back and let Doctors kill Black women. But White Women fat etc. get taken care of just fine.

[@trnigyul]

That strong black woman stereotyoe really hurts us on so many levels. In Healthcare they believe we don't feel as much pain as non black women or that we can endure more. Meanwhile we're out here dying. It's 2022 and this conversation is now happening on a nationalistic level. Better late than never...I guess.

[@rellie_90]

They did it before that stereotype even became “a thing.” It’s on record that they’ve never cared, and they created it for sinister reasons.

[@williampearson6299]

@@rellie_90 Why, pray/tell, do black people bother with hospitals? Why not fund your own private practices? And stop paying medical insurance as well to hurt their pockets

[@DaughterofZion4Life]

And this is also an epidemic period amongst care for black people. We literally have to educate ourselves to the point of feeling like we're the doctor.

[@zeemc2751]

So true, the doctor's I have encountered are clueless, don't like to listen, prescribe medications with knowing the side effects. The United States is the only country, that DO NOT properly try to take care of their people.😩.

[@SarahR2D2]

I think most black people trust the doctors and don't realize that they are mostly in it for the profit and couldn't care less about us

[@bss6273]

😎💯🎯

[@raraevans9689]

Some doctors really hate when your knowledgeable! But we have to advocate for ourselves or have someone that can speak for us and convey our wishes or concerns when we aren't able to!

[@SarahR2D2]

@@raraevans9689 When I was trying to advocate for myself one of the providers told me I don't understand the data that I was reading because I wasn't a provider. This was in reference to the contradictions of being induced with pitocin. I told her I'm still not doing it. Its medical gaslighting

[@Mary-io1mb]

She's right it is a national embarrassment. This is not a ‘third world’ country. Even in ‘third world’ countries birth rates fair better than here in America. Shame.

[@chrisgullett4332]

For one 3rd world countries do not exist anymore, and have no for over 30 years. 3rd world countries only existed during the cold war. 3rd world countries were simply neutral countries. Now idiots have started using the 3rd world term to label poor countries. No this is not an embarrassment, it is simple, lots of women get abortions in the U.S. and not in other countries. Also, the black race does not have higher rates, they are simply a much smaller group in the U.S. that whites, so their percentages will always be higher. There are over 5 times more whites, which means for whites to have the same percentage over 5 times more whites would need to be affected. For example, let's say you have 100 whites and 10 blacks, and 1 black baby died and 1 white baby died, that would mean just 1% of white babies died and 10% of black babies, even though only one baby from each group died. When you hear somebody using percentages to compare and other racial group to whites in the U.S. it means they are lying to you to make you believe their agenda. You cannot use percentages to compare two groups with vastly different populations, because the group with the lower population will always appear to be more affected. What you have to do is adjust the numbers for differences in populations, and then you will see the real story. Like death by police encounters. More whites are killed during police encounters than all other races combined, but when somebody has an agenda they can simply use percentages to make you believe blacks are dying at a higher rate. When you adjust the numbers the reality shows that whites die at double the rate of blacks during police encounters. For every 20 thousand police encounters 1 black dies, but 2 whites die. Whites are also more likely to get death sentences, and almost 60% of all death row inmates are white, and over 60% of all executions are performed on whites. But what they do is compare the numbers to the total populations of the racial group then tell you that the smaller group is more likely to get the death penalty and be executed, which simple match tells you is just wrong. They are using percentages on purpose, and it is to keep Americans divided based on race so that the Democrat Party can pander to minorities. Malcolm X had this figured out 60 years ago and tried to warn people about the Democrat party doing this, and 60 years later people are still falling for it.

[@user-en1zc5vd6y]

“3rd world countries” do far better than America in most areas. Having a massive economy that impoverishes a big chunk of the population(who btw are not spared when it comes to taxes) is obscene

[@user-en1zc5vd6y]

@@chrisgullett4332 oh dear…

[@chrisgullett4332]

@@user-en1zc5vd6y I see you cannot handle facts. Toughen up pansy!

[@august21xp]

Exactly

[@geesa4724]

My last baby I used a midwife and let me tell you, it was the most beautiful experience I had ever had. It was soothing, it was empowering, it was KIND. I 100% recommend for moms to consider using one.

[@GoldSag1]

Only came to see how many comments with the “ all women etc “. It didn’t disappoint smh Stories specific to Black people always gets clumped together with everyone else. Speaking on one topic doesn’t negate other topics. Damn. Next time I hear someone talk about the horrors of the Holocaust, I’m going to pay attention to the comments to see if they get clumped together too.

[@laurennicole4565]

Exactly, I’d rather ppl just admit they hate black ppl and move on. Their dismissiveness of our issues and immediate response to automatically clump us together with others speak volumes.

[@inactiveaccount6106]

Spoiler Alert: They don't. They only do it when it concerns us.

[@TealJadeTurquoise1]

@N H You are a God, hence, this explains the constant assaults on your very being. At 40 and pregnant with my youngest daughter, I felt assaulted by the treatment I received during my birthing experience. I was very fit and healthy with a perfect pregnancy. Medical staff is detached and will say and do anything when dealing with you. I began to wonder if birthing by a tree or in a water filled tub is better.

[@grace3485]

Their so weird it's gross

[@teejack8108]

When it's about Black Women, but it turns into women of color.

[@chidenisee]

I had a doula. It was amazing. She took care of me and my son for a month. She made sure I voiced my concerns and my questions were answered. I lucked up as well because my ob was my gyn who performed my myomectomy 7 years before and he was a sophomore specialist in his field. Only once I felt like I wasn't listened too and it was by the nurse practitioner in my son's pediatrician office. I will never speak to her again but everyone else was awesome. It was definitely not cheap to have a doula, 4k, but it was worth it. I saved up for 4 years before I had my son so that helped.

[@TotallyTrista]

I had a myomectomy. Did you have to have a c-section?

[@Rico34]

You can’t blame them for taking this route. There is a definitive difference in care-always have been. Shame. I wish I was more educated on this when I was younger when my queen was having our sons; she suffered a great deal unnecessarily. Glad she came out of it ok.

[@RacieRain]

I had a caring black obgyn. He was phenomenal! R.I.P. Dr. Eldridge.

[@thelifeofamomofyoungmanand6439]

Thank God he was with me with both births this is sad for us black women missing out on seeing your baby grow up

[@SarahR2D2]

And the children missing their mom 😭😭😭

[@thelifeofamomofyoungmanand6439]

@@SarahR2D2 yes I can't imagine not being here with my two sons😢

[@SarahR2D2]

@@thelifeofamomofyoungmanand6439 These doctors are only out for money anymore

[@kingstonstreet3726]

Serena William experience it

[@TeaWithTay]

So did Beyoncé

[@karenwadwell6007]

Here in Australia most babies are delivered by midwives, doctors are generally only involved if complications arise and I believe it's the same, if not, similar in the UK

[@superwomanme]

And in the Caribbean too

[@carolejean8110]

Similar in France and Ireland.

[@williampearson6299]

Don't pay for medical insurance.

[@Latte-girly90]

Australian midwives are not the same as Amercian midwives. Midwives in the US follow holistic traditional-based practices, they are not typically trained professionals. Australian midwives would be equivalent to a specialized nurse

[@pausedforcyberbullying_]

The babies in the u.s. are killed the mom too if the right person is working.

[@willa1699]

My sister almost died in the hospital as a result of negligence. She was so scarred she doesn’t even want to relive the memory to file a malpractice lawsuit. That doctor better thank her lucky stars.

[@kmross73]

I'm so sorry that happened to your sister. I pray that she heals from the emotional trauma of that experience. I also pray the doctor doesn't harm or even kill someone else.

[@willa1699]

@@kmross73 thank you 🙏🏾

[@fofofofo6182]

Imagine travelling to US paying 10.000 USD or more and dying during labor? That is a disaster! It is better to travel to Europe or South America, paying a lower price and have better outcomes.

[@ayuanabradford3206]

Or Mexico private care

[@tb11212]

Crazy thing is I’ve seen people pay three times that 😩 $30k is insane to pay for a bringing a baby into the world

[@Earthspirit555]

Or at home, in your safe space. Women tend to progress faster when they're comfortable. Midwives and doulas usually will show up to your house to assist.

[@only1adrienne]

My c-sections were $40k+, had both sons at New York Presbyterian.

[@ms.b3382]

Could they find another doctor to give black women advice about advocating for themselves. Nothing against her but I think most black women have experienced feeling ignored or undervalued in health-care and having a doctor who also understands medicine from the lense of a black woman can impact the suggestions made.

[@lakiiamccall3051]

I thought about that too, but believe they used her to get the message across to those who are prone to not listen to us. Otherwise, we're just complaining again.😒

[@sandrajones651]

Not every woman has that option.

[@OrangeSplash7]

My thoughts exactly

[@TheZibbor]

I understand and agree that an advocate can make a positive impact, however, when your voice is not being heard it’s time to look at the root cause of the systemic biases and make a change there.

[@minah27]

@@lakiiamccall3051 yea, ur probably right.

[@victoria-qq4jr]

I had a really traumatic birthing experience, God 🙌🏾 was truly with me that day because I don’t know how I made it out.

[@SisterKnight]

I had to loudly advocate for myself in both of my pregnancy. I'm pregnant now in a new state and I'm terrified.

[@Soul.in.the.garden]

@@SisterKnight have you considered reaching out to local doula and midwives in your new area?

[@SisterKnight]

@@Soul.in.the.garden I have an appointment with a midwife in 5 days. Im having a c-section because my pelvic is too narrow so there is only so much she can do.

[@shanias.3915]

God is the one that put you through that trauma sweetheart. It’s a curse placed on women after Adam ate forbidden fruit.

[@victoria-qq4jr]

@@shanias.3915 lol 😂 that’s a fucked up thing to say.

[@up-uw4op]

YES!! I had one hospital birth that was horrible. I had the next 3 at home. Watch the business of being born on youtube. Doctors are trained to used drugs and surgery. Midwives are trained for natural birth and preventing complications naturally.

[@chinyeree.6650]

That documentary, among many other things is what led me to have a natural birth for both of my children. The Bradley Method classes are excellent for preparation to do natural birthing.

[@jarrypason8885]

Hello Carol how are you doing today?

[@tanisha2761]

It is an embarrassment

[@flowerchild9672]

This is what I wanted, unfortunately I was high risk so I had to stick to my regular obgyn doctor. I was very blessed to have a wonderful doctor who was on top of all my high risk issues. They have (since my second child), added a doula/midwife.

[@netforce13]

At first I was taken aback that they chose a white doctor to speak on the concerns of black patients. But I have to say everything she said was empowering. Especially the idea that as women we have to listen to our guts and not let doctors pressure us into doing something we don't want to. That can be so hard and its so easy to be silenced. Hold your ground mamas!!

[@psychomammiescaught2506]

Black nurses out number white nurses so the ones who are killing black women are other black women. You don’t have to be white to uphold white supremacy

[@moonwater7985]

Why SO obsessed about colour of skin? Why can't a white doctor talk about women's concerns, wether purple, blue or green? America has become lost.

[@netforce13]

@@moonwater7985 I don't know. If they're making a 'news' story on how black women aren't given as much care and die on the birthing bed wayyyyy more than white women, color becomes part of the story. I'd like to say color doesn't matter, but this is America. Its easy for one race of people to ignore the problems that don't concern them, one needs to have insight and empathy and solidarity with another race to talk about their problems. On a similar note, gender matters as well. If you've gone to enough medical professionals you'll see that male doctors are less likely to take a woman's concerns seriously.

[@tiahnarodriguez3809]

@@moonwater7985 Because some people think that people of a certain race are the only ones who are qualified to speak about their race’s issues when the reality is a person doesn’t have to be from the same race to understand another race’s issues.

[@williampearson6299]

@@tiahnarodriguez3809 Well, aren't they? Usually the ones hurting the black women are palmed coloured people. Earn black women's trust first

[@ChialukaGold]

I’ve been saying this, you can’t even blame BW for wanting this or suggesting all black staff, it’s ridiculous that it’s still going on.

[@queenprincess4life]

Right! I’m glad bw are finally waking up. Now if only they can stop shooting up their children with those drugs…our race will shift positively quickly.

[@ronnie2699]

I almost died my doctor was a white man who was half sleep when he delivered my baby, The nurses really saved my life they worked on me until I was fine God bless them they were all different races... I had a miscarriage which was extremely bad my doctor at that time was a white woman she didn't come to the hospital but she sent another white nurse practitioner who was horrible in she drop a sterile medical tool pick it up an used it on me anyway, I was already in shock because I was bleeding to death... I never said anything because I was traumatized and depressed afterwards she should be fired

[@TunTheOfficial]

I'm very sorry for that. I hope you could still file a complaint against them.

[@jennpul1015]

She dropped the tool and still used it ???? Omg!!!. I am happy that you made it through

[@dion6340]

These Doctors & nurses need to be held accountable.... I’ve also received poor service from white healthcare providers. It’s very demeaning & hurtful. They do it right in your face, it’s cunning. P.s this behavior was pre-covid They take an oath to do right, I can only imagine where their souls will ultimately rest or not…..

[@onetallgirl1369]

YES!

[@psychomammiescaught2506]

Black doctors are worst

[@Earthspirit555]

I am in school right now to become a nurse and ultimately a Midwife. Please, we are getting there as fast as possible. Representation matters!

[@sparklesp9304]

An oath doesn't override the unconscious programming that has been passed from one generation to another. The people who are raised to see us through the lens of stereotypes have to be unbrainwashed to not be a threat to us. They don't see us as humans like them.

[@Warau1000]

Saw a quote that said "health practioners are to black women what police are to black men."

[@purple00k]

Wow that’s deep

[@Daisha92]

You broke my heart with this one never thought of it like this.

[@TB-jj7ri]

I had midwives for both my births and a doula during my second birth. It is worthwhile to have extra people willing to advocate for you during this scary time.

[@calidreams5379]

Systemic racism in healthcare system or even racism by individual healthcare workers needs to be monitored and addressed with data and AI. There also needs to be accountability. This is really disturbing that a woman has to fear going to a hospital for childbirth.

[@rai55]

WOW. This is literally what I’m returning to academia to do: I’m currently enrolled in a Google Data Analytics certificate with a goal of a doctorate in public health. This exact issue is part of my interest area, esp considering that I lived to share my story & hopefully assist others.

[@peni1641]

Have you ever worked in healthcare. I have and I can tell you that black ppl come in looking for a fight.

[@WebDeva7]

Why do they always need a damn study or to review the stats to tell us what we already know. 😢

[@allyouget4960]

A black nurse overheard a white nurse say I was a bi#@h for requesting fluids after giving birth. She understood i was thirsty and brought me several drinks and discussed to me what the white nurse said.

[@iwuvpiesgaming9164]

Do not fret friend a lot of people are going to hell and they don’t even know it

[@queenprincess4life]

Yet they want you to leave your child alone with them?!?! They’re supposed to care for your baby while you rest after giving birth? SMH. I wouldn’t advise anyone to give birth in a hospital again.

[@profmj7630]

So true..I almost died during my last child and my son as well...no one treated as a big issue...my son and I were both traumatized by that birth

[@gms4430]

Same smh

[@Hiddenplace414]

Same time almost bled to death and my doctor was a black woman. She treated me like I was a parasite... unfortunately not alot of good representation in medical field

[@profmj7630]

@@Hiddenplace414my heart goes out to you...this is horrible. I pray you are healing form this traumatic birth. Was your baby okay? Sending prayers Most of his birth I don't remember because there was a period where I was unconscious and woke up with an oxygen mask and the doctor saying push. Son born with cord wrapped around neck and shoulders. After I push him out, I passed out. Son never sent to NICU...years later he has too many developmental delays to count.

[@shalindaplanks181]

Doctors and medical professionals like to label patients as having behavioral problems when they stand up for themselves. Your medical records are in patient portals that are accessed by every medical professional that you come in contact with. Those personal observations are taken into account and really affect the kind of care patients receive.

[@spoton8660]

So true. Many Medical Hospitals/ facilities may use a software in which the patients records are share across multiple providers. I have learned that the doctors are able to communicate in notes to each other outside of the notes that they put in the patient portal. In some cases this may result in the patient being black listed by providers. It is an inhuman practice that needs legislative redress.

[@rellie_90]

Exactly! I think people should make it a habit to request their records once a year and review them.

[@antonios4681]

So you got a white woman OB to discuss the mortality of black women in labor and delivery?

[@afriendabroad2083]

Do you know that less than 3 percent of doctors are black women? That is doctors, not obgyn specialists. How many black female obgyns do you think are out there who are available and willing to come to the GMA station live at that day and time to do this segment?

[@antonios4681]

@@afriendabroad2083 that's the problem, it's been past time we've fixed the match into residency problem, especially for aspiring black physicians

[@lovenspired]

Thank you Good Morning America for shining attention to a very serious and real threat to Black women. It's great to see issues particularly concerning Black women highlighted on large platforms.

[@kimbelladior3701]

Thank you so much for this information I so needed to hear this

[@RaMackFire]

This is truly sad healthcare is the last place discrimination belongs smh

[@e113jelly6]

Oh but It most certainly is very racist there’s a lot of power that lies in the Health care that’s why. I know been in it for years

[@RaMackFire]

@@e113jelly6 I just stopped working in healthcare myself. I never saw it but I obviously was blind to an issue that has been going on for so long. I'm glad I changed fields

[@tobymarley1]

My 3rd child, I hired midwives and a doula. I will continue my primary care with those midwives. They listened to me and didn't shame me for any of the decisions I made.

[@kaceygrey5368]

Thank you good morning america for covering this as a topic this is something that isn’t talked about enough

[@thekeith-donovanexperience]

Like back in the old days

[@mobutter2879]

Only with less deaths!

[@SarahR2D2]

These stories all have a common theme and that's csection and interventions. That is the hospitals bread and butter. Physiologically I dont think black women fare well with surgery and I'm not sure why. I would avoid csections. I had both my children naturally. With my second they tried to say he had asymmetrical growth retardation and I had to be induced. I told them no and even went 40 weeks and 5 days when my body was ready. He was born 100% healthy. Had I listened to him who knows what would have happened to me. They wouldn't have lost an iota of sleep.

[@bamagrl26]

I have to disagree with you on this as a Black woman. I gave birth in 2000 to twins after baby B was in the Breeched position and I didn't have any complications in both my C-sections, the second one was my choice as I read and researched the Pro's and Con's of a VBAC. I had a C-section at 36 weeks with my daughter and she nor I had any complications. My doctor was part of a multi-ob-gyn practice where I would see a different OB month to month. I did deliver at one of the best OB-GYN hospitals in the country. The number one thing that led to a smooth birth was no anxiety, I went in to the OR filling very good and I knew GOD was in control. Ladies lowering your stress and anxiety before birth makes a difference.

[@prncessbaby16]

Some of us literally can't have natural births because of our issues

[@SarahR2D2]

@@bamagrl26 You probably didn't need a c section. Your c section went well but the research says most deaths occur with c section or preeclampsia

[@bamagrl26]

@@SarahR2D2 Its was a choice, that I made after researching the success and failure rate of having a VBAC. I preferred a C-Section over a vaginal as everyone isn't cut out for hours of labor. My point was I made a well informed decision about my health with the knowledge of a very skilled physician. That's why it's a woman's choice.

[@SarahR2D2]

@@bamagrl26 So based on your experience, you will suggest that everyone get a life threatening surgery

[@jazzyj6640]

This is literally my biggest fear if I decide to have children.

[@BlackQueen0109]

OMG!! Who chose this doctor to speak for Black women? Smh

[@onetallgirl1369]

IRK! What does she know! They should have interviewed Dr. Joia Creer-Perry, who is a black woman , trained OB-GYN and has been speaking out about the mortality rate of black women for a LONG TIME!! That white doctor is a PART of the problem!!

[@yogude]

My thoughts exactly - she couldn’t even get outside of her whiteness to speak truth - I’m glad someone else noticed. This was a complete miss with dr jenn for me. GMA blew it - she is not the expert on this issue, she may be an ally, may be knowledgeable, but her stumbling for words was a red flag. Sorry 😣

[@hc507]

That’s what you got out of this? Why not go get a medical degree then so you can help lead the community instead of complain about someone giving good advice because of her skin color.

[@lf9038]

We need Black people and White people to speak up on this issue. There are many who will not listen if it is a Black person speaking on it.

[@loolikyl0005]

There need to be more black run and black operated hospitals and WELL TRAINED AND PROFESSIONNAL black staff. I'm emphasing those points because I have whitnessed some black medicals (nurses more than doctors) who were awful.

[@tiahnarodriguez3809]

Honestly, I don’t think increasing the amount of black owned and operated hospitals in going to do anything cuz the system is the issue, and unfortunately even black folks play into it. You are so right about black nurses. I truly don’t know why, but every black nurse I’ve had treated me poorly, but every black doctor I’ve had has been amazing. It’s very odd.

[@Thula_Impala96]

This reminds me of the Dr. Shalon’s Maternal Action Project ♥️

[@XactlyCeSe1]

“Women of color” “women of color”. It’s Black Women.

[@tom11zz884]

All the more reasons why Blacks need to start producing more doctors in this hostile country

[@superwomanme]

Blacks????

[@Hiddenplace414]

Unfortunately my doc was a black women and she almost killed me after childbirth. She was a nightmare doctor! Some people just shouldn't ever be medical professionals because some have God complex and treat patients like they are stupid

[@purple00k]

@@Hiddenplace414 exactly not because they are Black like us doesn’t mean they will have good intentions

[@MrsHappy1991]

I’ve been seeing these videos pop up and I had to click on them. It was interesting reading the comments. I’m going to be a first time mom in July. I’m a black American but live in U.K. with hubby. In the U.K. we all get midwife to start but I believe we also get a doctor if we have high risk pregnancy. I must say I didn’t have the best experience with my midwife in the beginning as she told me I had to have a natural birth. There’s nothing wrong with having a natural birth but I felt pressure and she didn’t bother to speak to me about my other options. Her phone was always off so I could never speak to her if I had any questions or concerns. I just felt she didn’t care for me at all. Luckily I’ve got a new midwife and I really like her - she’s very experienced and responds back to me very quickly! I still think us black women need to keep up to date with information and stay on top of everything I.e test results and appointments. Don’t be afraid to contact the midwife or doctor if you have any concerns - make them listen to you.

[@c.f.7408]

I just want to say that in some states midwifery is not as regulated as other states. CA midwifery are required to be actual nurses and train extensively. Other states do not have the same laws. Check the laws in your state to make sure you have a professional medically trained person.

[@tiahnarodriguez3809]

I was just about to say this. Getting a midwife is also risky because if things go wrong, depending on the midwife, they may be very limited in what they can do to help you, so you may still have to go to the hospital, and for some people having a mid-wife instead of going to the hospital may be fatal because the midwife waited too long to call an ambulance. I know a midwife center in CA was on the news for this a super long time ago, but things have gotten better.

[@Misssmexxii]

I'm giving birth in a hospital with a midwife next to me. Doctors don't like checking in on you after the birth that's why a lot of women die.

[@snsn7251]

Similar issues here in the UK

[@melodiesproul4109]

Every pregnant woman should turn to a midwife! If all American women turned to midwives the death rates would drop exponentially. Even if you're high risk and need to go to a hospital, you can still use a midwife.

[@hoodoodaughter...7365]

"We ain't meant to survive cause it's a set up" Tupac......

[@TunTheOfficial]

Great for black women. Get your care on! Enjoy your maternity with your loving & protective, providing partner 😊

[@raerae3844]

I have heard of a similar story in the UK. This is most suspicious!

[@Eva-db5lw]

There's a lot of bias, personally had a Hispanic doctor but first question he got asked by one nurse was and I quote "you normally do CS on these how come you didn't on this one" that was the end of all the peace in that room. Yelling and all kinds of things. This country needs to do more. Have more black obygns and L $ D nurses as well because representation matters and some people are just not comfortable touching a black person period.

[@apara2005]

Wtf????? I can't believe the nurse called you a "these" 😲. So scary!!!!!!! Im glad you and your child were ok ❤

[@bubblybubbles4023]

what is CS?

[@onetallgirl1369]

This is reason I am trying so hard to get into medical school! It's not easy some days, but I'm going to keep pushing through!

[@Misana]

@@onetallgirl1369 You can do it.

[@bmoe4609]

Had issues with even some black people

[@Dori90210]

WOW. Thank you for doing this story. Very educational and I will now look into midwifery for my next pregnancy.

[@youknowwhatflav9916]

This makes me very sad.

[@dddlove1242]

This is crazy America shame on u

[@taylorchanna]

It’s definitely important to have a strong advocate when we have to go to the doctor

[@chooseempathy108]

If a doctor or healthcare provider refuses to listen to your concerns, ask them to document their refusal on your chart! You are entitled to that by law. 9 times out of 10 it will make your healthcare provider reconsider their refusal to help you.

[@iriemo721]

Not this foolishness again 🤦🏽‍♀️. Are you going to verify that they wrote it down? Can’t they just “ignore” that request like they “ignored” your other concerns?

[@chooseempathy108]

@@iriemo721 what is "foolish" about sound advice? you can watch them as they write down their refusal on your chart. it is your right. if they attempt to ignore your request, by law, you can pursue legal action. critically think and do your research please. have a good day, God bless.

[@ebh8729]

Yep I had both midwives and a doula for both pregnancies and advocate for black women to choose the same! Hands down best decision I made

[@mariejae]

My gyno is an Indian woman and she listens to me 💗👍🏽. I also have PPO insurance.

[@GabriellaGabrielle]

Be careful. They aren’t any better.

[@Hiddenplace414]

Think they are just alot of really shitty doctors. Had a black woman almost kill me after I gave birth and the other doc a white man was just as awful. They seemed to team up and torture me. Now I'm scared ever get pregnant again I'm truly afraid I will bleed to death the cause they never solved the actual issue

[@sunshinepeace]

This is exactly why I’m having my baby boy at home

[@alexarihani2902]

Death rates for mother or children with home birth vs hospital birth is much higher. Find a doctor you listens to you and your trust-they are out there. Don’t let anyone dismiss your concerns but don’t risk your health or your baby’s health.

[@queenprincess4life]

@@alexarihani2902 that’s a lie!! Stop trying to spread your fear because you probably work in the medical feed and trying to use black body parts to feast on.

[@brejayelle]

My baby is 5 weeks today. I’ve known since before ingot pregnant that I wanted a midwife. Was thankful to find a midwife clinic near me that was super supportive of what I wanted, and cared so much for me from the onset. While I had to have a C-section, it could not have been a more beautiful experience thanks to my midwives and doula.

[@thetomboychronicles9850]

I loooooooove midwives..doulas the experience is so intimate and special. Unfortunately, I was in a car accident and I had to have a emergency C-section.

[@ArghRawrWhoa]

Yes

[@PolkafacePanDuh]

There is a big issue in fetal/infant death. It's insane how high the USA's infant mortality rate is for a "wealthy" nation xD

[@Daisha92]

That's because there's fetal cells in food.

[@PolkafacePanDuh]

@@Daisha92 😂 SOURCE CHECK.

[@queenprincess4life]

@@Daisha92 yup

[@sweettoothmarie7304]

I think we have been conditioned to give birth in a hospital with the help of a doctor

[@DrkRse0788]

I am so very thankful for my OB..although getting quality care should be the norm..I trusted her with my babies and my life and specially went back to her when through all three of my pregnancies..one being a miscarriage (no one's fault..baby just stopped growing.) but she truly made my birthing experiences happy ones.

[@tiffanyc8307]

Giving birth is an out of body experience but to go through this is horrible why is this a thing

[@latichina5]

Omg i love it!!! I wish I could’ve have one when I was pregnant.

[@lucysworld5738]

I had a baby two months ago and my doctor arms were crossed. I was very confused and ask myself who was the delivery doctor.

[@hummingbird2514]

Sadly same issue in Europe.

[@maryabara4892]

That's great

[@caseyjoe232]

Back to the midwives it's safe most of them have teams and are nurses bedside isn't the same anymore a good friend of mine wasn't checked properly in the hospital for the correct about of the placenta and lost lots of blood behind not being checked have been at besides 2 different times when friends have been lied to saying that they haven't dilated when they had only to end up doing emergency c sessions and used staples that popped sent home to pack I've seen a lot go wrong now don't get me wrong all Dr. Aren't bad and some do listen insurance doesn't want to cover it because the price is less than in the hospital

[@thoughtsideas6929]

Love the reporter's curly natural hair!!💛

[@eprahs1]

Thank god

[@sarahbaartmansrevenge]

it should be obvious by now what’s really going on in these hospitals. stay out of the hospital and give birth at home. much safer, and you and your baby will stay alive

[@chazconway9578]

I sure the hell did!! And it was the best decision I made!!

[@SPYgirl199812]

And this is why I will adopt

[@Therealnicoletayan]

Wow! Look at God! I am a witness of the disparities. I always wanted a midwife with each child because these doctors don’t help us. They see our pain and issues as non existent. 🙌🏾 and we must educate ourselves. And pass the knowledge down. This is how our ancestors used to do it.

[@Evettecord]

How was it giving birth w/midwives? Did you give birth at home or in a birthing center?

[@Earthspirit555]

@@Evettecord I know you didn't ask me but I had my second child with a midwife and I loved it! I birthed at the hospital and I really wanted to birth in the water but they didn't let me. They were very attentive but not too hands on. They motivated me, cared for me but they weren't tugging on the baby like Doctors usually do. My experience was so top tier that they made me want to go to school for midwifery. When I have my next child I'll have a midwife again, and I want to birth at home in the water.

[@Evettecord]

@@Earthspirit555 thank you for this. :)

[@Earthspirit555]

@@Evettecord My pleasure!

[@Earthspirit555]

@@Evettecord I also wanted to add that you CAN labor in the water. Just consider that if you will give birth in the hospital it is usually “policy” for you not the birth in the water. So you cannot push while in the water but you can have your contractions in the water.

[@stacycamacho59]

This is why I prefer a DO more so an MD. Thus far my OB is an Osteopathic doctor. I have to say: I am listened to more. And her visits are an hour long, and questions are asked, and answered. Mid wives are hard to find in our area, because MD's refuse to have them work under them. Our local clinic actually phased them out. Our new private practice that I switched to is actually looking for a certified mid-wife right now. I left the one clinic because my own OB wasn't showing up to my appointments.

[@amyj4438]

I had to stop going to my 1st provider at 22 weeks because they were terrible!!!!! They. Did.not.listen!!!! I changed and had midwives for both my pregnancies and had a midwife and doula for my 2nd. I'm not gonna lie I liked it being at the hospital though. My 1st son was sunny side up. 44 hours from water break to birth, but vaginal. My 2nd son was 8 hrs but I wasn't fully dilated..... but he was coming and I couldn't stop pushing.... my cervix tore and I had to have emergency surgery. I only like hospitals for emergencies..... but my midwives , nurses, husband, and doula were amazing! And I wouldn't trade any of it. They really listened well!!!

[@k.karmas1126]

I'm terrified of giving birth in May

[@leahunfeigned5955]

You and baby will be fine in the name of Jesus.

[@ayuanabradford3206]

I’m scared to give birth at all but still going to but not in America lol more close by

[@bubblybubbles4023]

I pray that you and the baby will be ok.

[@LifewithBreanna_]

"For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind"- 2 Timothy 1 kjv

[@crazyfurbabieslady]

❤️❤️❤️❤️

[@Lolafalana12]

It’s all medical issues. I went into the emergency room for arrhythmia and a nurse really tried to turn me away only the doctor standing behind her saw the heart monitor go from a normal rate to over 100 in seconds. She immediately admitted me and I told her I need a lactate ringer. Once they gave me that and saw my heart rate returned to normal they were gonna give a chest X-ray but decided not to. I had to tell doctors what I needed….really think about that. This is why so many black people self medicate and don’t rely on the healthcare industry for anything less than dire.

[@user-xq3jq3cf2f]

Pregnancy is just a headache honestly. I had a miscarriage. I have no idea what went wrong. Now that I know the risks. I'm ok and will take my time to put it a priority mentally when it happens.

[@serenity4ever2010]

I came from a third world country and my aunts and even my own mother relied on midwives. Mothers and newborns. For my birth, I would definitely requiring a midwife.

[@ChamblissFam1102]

🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽

[@JoyandSerenity.]

As someone who doesn't live in the US, did you not normally have a midwife? Here everyone gets a midwife, you speak to her about anything and everything. Its normally only if you are a higher risk pregnancy that doctors need to get involved.

[@natashadaniels2562]

No. We usually have an Obstetrician. Giving birth in a hospital. My first pregnancy I had a midwife but still gave birth in a hospital. No option for home birth. Although I never would have chosen that for myself anyway. Ultimately, a doctor delivered my baby because I had to have a c-section.

[@jaeesmichelle]

No, in the USA we have to go to surgeons (Obstetrician) for birthing and do it strictly in a hospital setting. This is why the majority of women here are pressured into c-section births or forced to have inductions. We have to privately educate ourselvee and fund a natural birth most of the time. Thankfully, more midwives are accepting insurance and allowing natural births. We're not even taught how to breastfeed, they push formula as the 'norm' and most of us don't even know how to do it anymore.

[@rellie_90]

Nope, birthing is a business in the US of A. 🥴

[@Indigolily80]

Midwives used to be the default and dominate health care provider for pregnant women. My grandmother gave birth via midwife to 5 of her six chuldren in the 50's and 60's.

[@gigisgucci]

I’m 8 weeks pregnant and scared

[@CRAZY927]

Insurance is going to be big in halting using a midwife for many people.

[@TheNecessaryEvil]

About 860 women in the US died in 2020 from pregnancy complications. About 6.1 million women successfully gave birth. So the number of women who die from some aspect of pregnancy is very low.

[@growden100]

This is insanity and long standing. My daughter just had her baby at home with midwife.

[@NashvilleBraids]

Decided not to go back to the hospital for anything unless I’m dying. Waste of time. I REFUSE. Never get anything I need when I actually need it. I received prenatal care at a local hospital until I was 7 months and I ended up getting a midwife and doula because of the poor treatment I received. BEST DECISION EVER. Just last month at a check up, I told a medical resident that my Ferrous sulfate tablets for iron deficiency were making me feel sick. She told me, “I don’t know why because that’s not a side effect of ferrous sulfate.” But nausea is literally one of the top side effects. She just assumed I was too ignorant to understand how medicine effects my body. I am extremely in touch with my body, just like a lot of black women. Often we can feel when something is “off” weeks or even months before anything shows up physically. And we go to these so called medical professionals and they assume we are hypochondriacs or that we can’t be trusted with our own bodies. Enough is ENOUGH. No more of this! Take your power back sistas!!

[@BirdieOrchid]

Y'all better as long as you can afford it. Hopefully health insurance plans will support this. Doctors don't treat us like they do them. Smh

[@faithnhope7073]

Oh god and here I am 44 and wanting children and scared to bare a child due to the fact, a doctor may choose to neglect me. Its shame and shouldn't be like that. I may just have to adopt......

[@iwuvpiesgaming9164]

A lot of people are going to Hell for these monstrous deeds.

[@treasurerose6732]

They are ignoring them and having bad experiences why should they go expose themselves to that. The degree of deaths and bad experiences are unacceptable and alternatives are being sought. Pivotal moments and shifts

[@keishaalison7171]

❤️❤️❤️

[@macosbyanthony896]

Honestly, what Americans are terming as risks is something that we are not even getting here in Ghana. Our health professionals just do not care. They only care when you bribe them. When you fall ill here in Ghana and is going to the hospital, just fast and pray that you meet a health professional who truly cares about saving lives.

[@sparklesp9304]

Well, you guys need to do there what we do here then. Don't get mad at us because we expect the same treatment as everyone else in our country.