America’s Maternal Mortality Crisis: How Are We Failing Our Mothers?

Despite spending billions on healthcare, the United States has shockingly high rates of maternal deaths compared to other wealthy countries, with the situation worsening in recent years. A new report reveals that the U.S. has a maternal mortality rate of 22 deaths per 100,000 live births, far exceeding that of other high-income nations. Factors like mental health issues, racial disparities, a shortage of healthcare providers, and an aging population are driving this crisis. With many deaths occurring after childbirth, experts warn that better postpartum care and support could be crucial in addressing this growing problem.

Despite spending trillions on health care, the US continues to top wealthy nations in maternal fatalities; some experts label the recent increase as unprecedented.

A report by the Commonwealth Fund, an independent research institution that focuses on health care issues, attributes this "crisis" to a lack of specialized care providers, racial inequities, and...