Abstract Summary/Description
Despite spending nearly double the international average on healthcare, the United States maintains the highest maternal mortality rate of all economically developed countries (Gunja et al., 2024). In the state of Georgia, maternal deaths are nearly double the national rate (at 50.8 versus 29.6 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births in 2019) (CDC Wonder, n.d.). Additionally, Georgia holds the highest rate for Black maternal mortality at 66.6 deaths per 100,000 live births (Armstrong-Mensah et al., 2021). Georgia’s statewide hospital closures, maternal care deserts, and history of discriminatory medicine all amplify an overarching issue: Black maternal mental health. 40% of Black mothers in the United States experience Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADs) (Hernandez-Green et al., 2024b), and PMADs are the second highest cause of maternal death in Georgia (Stokes, 2024). Furthermore, PMADs lead to high rates of preterm birth, low birth weight, maternal suicide, and long-term effects on infant development and family functioning (McKee et al., 2021). Georgia Black mothers are at higher likelihood to struggle with these complications due to higher volumes of Stress Life Events, medical discrimination, and stigma surrounding mental illness in the Black community (Thompson et al., 2021). Recent studies cite improved mental health & pregnancy outcomes for Black mothers within community-based platforms, including doula care, midwifery, and birthing centers. Accordingly, Georgia changemakers should champion initiatives which integrate perinatal support services into clinical care models. Georgia’s increased investment in these resources could bolster long-term health outcomes for mothers and families statewide.
