Answer for NRS 420 Choose two factors from SDOH or DEI that have influenced maternal morbidity and mortality in the United States Re: Topic 1 DQ 1

I wanted to share the insights I gained from my research. Preventable maternal mortality deaths have been on the rise in the United States, ranking us fourth among high-income countries. Discrepancies in maternal care workforces, postpartum care access, and paid maternity leave policies may contribute to this concerning trend (Tikkanen et al., 2020). In 2018, there were 17 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births in the US, while countries like the Netherlands, Norway, and New Zealand reported ratios of 3 per 100,000 or fewer (Tikkanen et al., 2020).

One significant difference lies in the availability of care during pregnancy, labor, and delivery. The US has a shortage of midwives and OBGYNs compared to other developed countries. Additionally, postpartum care varies in the US but is guaranteed in other nations, with home visits by midwives or nurses proving beneficial for mental health, breastfeeding outcomes, and overall healthcare costs. Countries like the Netherlands ensure at least one postpartum visit within the first week (Tikkanen et al., 2020).

Furthermore, the absence of mandated paid maternity leave in the US sets us apart from other high-income nations. Maternity leave is crucial for women to cope with the physical and emotional demands of motherhood while maintaining financial stability for their families. Many countries provide up to a year of paid leave postpartum to aid women in their recovery after childbirth (Tikkanen et al., 2020).

In conclusion, addressing these disparities in maternal care workforces, postpartum care access, and paid maternity leave policies is essential to lowering maternal mortality rates in the United States. By implementing measures that have proven successful in other countries, we can strive towards a safer and healthier environment for expectant mothers and their babies.

Tikkanen, R., Gunja, M., Fitzgerald, M., & Zephyrin, L. (2020, November 18). Maternal Mortality and Maternity Care in the United States Compared to 10 Other Developed Countries. The Commonwealth Fund; The Commonwealth Fund. https://www.commonwealthfund.org/publications/issue-briefs/2020/nov/maternal-mortality-maternity-care-us-compared-10-countries