When I was pregnant with my first child, I faced a frustrating reality: my concerns as a Black woman were largely ignored by my healthcare provider. Despite knowing that Black women are three times more likely to experience severe complications during pregnancy compared to white women, I felt unheard. My prenatal visits were filled with me trying to articulate my worries, but rather than receiving reassurance, my doctor insisted that I had nothing to fear. This dismissal not only left me feeling invalidated but also deeply anxious about my health and safety.
Desperate for support, I sought a new physician, but living in a rural area made it challenging. There simply weren’t any Black doctors accepting new patients within a reasonable distance. But with my second pregnancy, I was determined to find a provider who would genuinely listen and address my concerns. Now, I’m passionate about empowering other Black women to advocate for themselves during pregnancy and childbirth.
It’s crucial for all expecting mothers, especially those from marginalized communities, to have access to care that acknowledges their unique experiences and concerns. I believe that all Black mothers deserve the same level of care and respect that anyone else receives. For more insights on advocating for your health during pregnancy, check out this piece on understanding vaginal birth after cesarean VBAC.
If you’re preparing for pregnancy, I recommend visiting March of Dimes, an excellent resource that offers valuable information for every stage. And for those interested in learning more about home insemination, you might find this blog post helpful: Home Insemination.
In summary, my journey through pregnancy taught me the importance of being heard and advocating for myself and others. I want to ensure that no Black mother feels the way I did—dismissed and afraid.