In many instances, healthcare providers fail to adequately listen to the concerns of Black mothers, which is deeply troubling. During my first pregnancy, I found myself in the emergency room over twenty times, yet each visit ended with the same directive: to rest. As a single mother, the idea of rest was a luxury I simply couldn’t afford. My focus was on work and saving my leave for the arrival of my baby.
I sought medical help for various alarming symptoms—extreme fatigue, intense abdominal pain, and relentless vomiting. As a first-time mother, these experiences left me terrified. Each appointment with my obstetrician team felt fruitless; my pleas for answers were dismissed, and aside from the occasional sympathetic nurse’s aide, I felt invisible. Doctors would reassure me that everything was fine, yet I continued to spiral back to the emergency room within days.
A Turning Point
The turning point came when I fell down a set of stairs due to dizziness caused by low blood sugar. I decided that I would not leave the hospital until someone took my condition seriously. I knew my experiences during pregnancy were not normal; I struggled to complete basic tasks and often required rest after showering. After five months of being brushed off, I was determined to advocate for myself.
The following morning, I took a cab to the hospital with my overnight bag, resolved to stay until I received proper care. The staff quickly triaged me and placed me in a waiting room for expectant mothers, where I was treated with kindness. After hours of waiting, one of my doctors finally entered the room. Her lack of empathy astonished me; she dismissed my concerns with, “Pregnancy is uncomfortable.” Frustrated, I inquired whether she had children, and when she admitted she didn’t, I took a firm stance and refused to leave.
Minutes later, a Black midwife entered and reviewed my chart. Noticing that I hadn’t undergone recent bloodwork, she ordered it. She then assured me I would have a bed for the night. I remained hospitalized for three days, during which staff diagnosed me with hyperemesis gravidarum and discovered I was severely anemic. With low iron levels and blood pressure, I was finally on the path to recovery.
The Broader Issue
Had my doctors listened to me initially, I could have enjoyed my pregnancy rather than endure countless hospital visits in search of validation. I am not alone; many Black mothers face similar medical biases. Even prominent figures like tennis champion Serena Williams have reported similar experiences. In fact, Black mothers in the U.S. are dying at significantly higher rates than their white counterparts.
During my hospital stay, I witnessed another Black woman in labor. Despite her evident distress, a nurse instructed her to “calm down.” The situation escalated, and I pressed the call button when I saw blood on her sheets. Ultimately, she was rushed away and later delivered her baby. This incident highlights the wider issue; if healthcare providers struggle to hear us, how can we expect them to address our needs?
Advocating for Change
The solution lies in holding medical professionals accountable while empowering ourselves to advocate relentlessly. Many women may not have the strength or knowledge to file complaints about their treatment. I was fortunate to persist, but countless others may not have the same resolve. Tragically, some women enter hospitals to bring new life into the world and never return.
Now, I have a Black female obstetrician who listens and provides thoughtful care. My past experiences have left me apprehensive about receiving treatment from white doctors, as I recognize the importance of having someone who genuinely values my health and well-being. For those navigating similar journeys, resources like Mount Sinai can provide valuable guidance, while Make a Mom offers insights into home insemination. Additionally, authoritative sources on related topics can be found at Intracervical Insemination.
Conclusion
In summary, it’s crucial for healthcare professionals to listen attentively to Black mothers’ concerns. By advocating for ourselves and seeking out empathetic providers, we can work toward a safer and more equitable healthcare experience.