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November 17th is Prematurity Awareness Day, drawing attention to the realities of preterm birth, especially among vulnerable communities. Prematurity is a leading cause of infant mortality and lifelong health challenges, especially affecting families from minority and low-income backgrounds.
Did You Know… Ohio ranks 7th worst in the U.S. for infant mortality, and in Cincinnati, the city’s overall infant mortality rate at 11.1 per 1,000 births [1]. Black babies in particular face mortality rates 2 to 3 times higher than white babies.
One of our main goals at the Buckeye Birth Coalition is to develop solutions for better birth outcomes for all families in Ohio.
Why Are Minority and Low-Income Groups at Higher Risk?
Preterm birth rates among minority and low-income families are significantly higher, a disparity rooted in several factors:
Health Inequities and Chronic StressBlack women and those in low-income households often experience chronic stress from economic challenges and inadequate access to resources. This sustained stress raises cortisol levels, which has been linked to preterm labor [2]. Racial biases in healthcare can also mean these mothers are less likely to receive early interventions or responsive care, increasing preterm birth risk.
Limited Access to Prenatal CareAccess to quality prenatal care is the first step in identifying and managing risks early in pregnancy. However, financial barriers, lack of transportation, and fewer healthcare facilities in underserved areas often hinder timely prenatal visits. Without regular monitoring and preventive care, complications may go undetected.
Higher Rates of Pre-existing Health ConditionsConditions like hypertension, diabetes, and obesity are more prevalent in minority and low-income communities, partially due to socioeconomic factors that limit access to nutritious food, safe exercise options, and regular healthcare. These conditions increase the likelihood of preterm birth and can exacerbate complications during pregnancy.
Preventing Preterm Birth Through Community and Policy Solutions
Here are some key strategies to address preterm birth disparities:
Expanding Access to Comprehensive Prenatal CareImproving access to prenatal care means investing in community clinics and creating more flexible prenatal programs that consider patients’ financial and logistical needs. Parents and practitioners need to be vocal about lobbying for new laws that ensure the safety and health of mothers and infants in Ohio.
Increasing Support for Midwifery and Doula ServicesMidwifery and doula support have shown excellent outcomes in reducing preterm births. Studies consistently show that midwifery care leads to better health outcomes, including significantly lower preterm birth rates. The Cincinnati Birth Center has maintained a 0% preterm birth rate over the past two years, aligning with broader U.S. data showing midwifery practices often have fewer preterm births compared to traditional obstetric care.
Implementing Community-Based Health ProgramsCommunity initiatives focused on maternal and infant health equip mothers with valuable resources, guidance, and consistent check-ins. Collaborating with community organizations also helps address broader social determinants of health, from housing instability to food insecurity.
Midwifery Care: A Path to Healthier Birth Outcomes
Midwifery care offers a solution to many of the challenges faced by women at risk of preterm birth. Midwives emphasize relationship-building, continuity of care, and addressing the holistic needs of mothers throughout pregnancy, which can significantly reduce the stress that contributes to early labor. Many pregnancy risks can be lowered simply throughgood nutrition and support.
On Prematurity Awareness Day, we’re reminded that reducing preterm birth rates—especially in underserved communities—requires both individual and systemic changes. By expanding access to midwifery care, improving prenatal services, addressing issues within the system, and building community-based support programs, we can work toward a future where all babies, regardless of their background, have a healthy start.