Research from trusted sources reveals that being able to get to an OB-GYN or Midwife is more than just a matter of convenience. It’s a matter of life and death.
Finding your prenatal provider is a priority.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC) report that Black, Native American, and Alaska Native women are two to three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications than white women are.
A study released in May 2019 found that one of the biggest issues confronting these women is the lack of access to high-quality healthcare during pregnancy.
Get intentional about selecting your prenatal provider.
Here's an article that enlightens us about the differences and similarities between an OB-GYN and a Midwife. Also, cultural competence is KEY so I'm also attaching a prenatal provider guide I created so that you can jump-start your search for medical care. I am here for you if you have any questions along the way.
What else can you do?
Published Data indicates that one of the most effective tools to improve labor and delivery outcomes is the presence of support personnel such as a doula. Given that there are no measurable harms associated with this resource, it's certainly worth considering hiring a birth doula for your family.
Tip:
Since you’ll probably go to the provider during the workday, think about what the trip is like from where you work to the provider's office.
5 Things to Remember
You can always change your mind.
Stay within your comfort zone.
Listen to your body.
Each woman's pregnancy is unique.
If you're not sure always air on the side of caution.