A Maternal Health Crisis
Maternal Mortality Rates in the United States, 2021/CDC
In 2021, the maternal mortality rate for non-Hispanic Black (subsequently, Black) women was 69.9 deaths per 100,000 live births, 2.6 times the rate for non-Hispanic White (subsequently, White) women (26.6) (Figure 1 and Table). Rates for Black women were significantly higher than rates for White and Hispanic women. The increases from 2020 to 2021 for all race and Hispanic-origin groups were significant.
Childbirth can be a daunting experience even under the best of circumstances. For pregnant inmates, labor and delivery may be additionally anxiety-provoking, because of lack of control over the birthing experience, limited health education, absence of support from family or friends, mother–newborn separation following delivery, and concern about infant placement.
High levels of stress in the perinatal period have been associated with maternal depression, preterm delivery, and low birth weights; therefore, childbirth support and education are particularly important for incarcerated women who are already at higher risk for complicated pregnancies.
Doula Support
The P.R.I.S.M. Program, provides Doula support through voluntary enrollment in Pennsylvania State Corrections Institutions. Mothers and Birthing people receive Doula Support Parentally and Postpartum. The impact of having continuous support in pregnancy and childbirth is supported by research studies. Mothers and Birthing People are more than their circumstance. they are "More than their mistakes"