FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) — Maternal mortality rates in the U.S. are down, according to numbers from the CDC.
“I think it gives us energy to keep moving forward with all the projects that we’ve been doing over the last few years to really address this serious issue,” said Dr. Christina Hiebert, the Birthing Center Chief with Kaiser Permanente Fresno.
Data from the new report showed that, in 2024, 649 women in the U.S. died of maternal causes. That’s compared to 2023, which saw 669 pregnancy-related deaths.
Dr. Hiebert says while the numbers are back to pre-pandemic levels, more still needs to be done.
“Our numbers are still not matching the goals that we have,” said Dr. Hiebert. “Unfortunately, in the developed world, we are still ranking at one of the highest maternal death rates in the world.”
Data also revealed that African American women had higher maternal mortality rates compared to white women. Dr. Hiebert says that improving access to care and education is a way to keep numbers low.
“There are many barriers that can prevent someone from accessing health care,” said Dr. Hiebert. “Some of them are personal, like work, transportation, and child care. The health care system also has a role to play. There are limited hours of operation in which we offer health care services.”
Dr. Hierbert explains that health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure and heart disease increase the risk for maternal deaths.
“One of the main silent killers in pregnancy is hypertension,” said Dr. Hiebert. “Most women who have high blood pressure never have any symptoms, don’t know that they’re having it, but it’s having an impact on their blood vessels and their heart.”
Pregnancy takes a toll on the body. Federal health leaders say more than 80% of pregnancy-related deaths are preventable. That’s why doctors say prenatal care is critical.
“You’re getting your blood pressure monitored, your heart rate monitored,” said Dr. Hiebert.
Doctors say it’s important for women to listen to their bodies and maintain consistent communication with their healthcare provider.
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