Black Maternal Health Awareness - Advocating for your Health

I have to ask, who was your biggest advocate in your motherhood journey?

As we advocate and bring more awareness to black mothers during this week, I think of this question and all that comes with it. I am reminded of the ups and downs of my journey into motherhood and I am truly blessed for the people that have been put in my path. 

Before my motherhood journey began, like many other women, I was told that I would need help in getting pregnant and would not be able to do so naturally. Thankfully, I believed that God can do all things and shortly after getting married, I became pregnant, naturally, with our first sweet baby. Then 18 weeks later, our sweet baby boy came much sooner than we wanted and was born sleeping. In hindsight, as a black woman, I did not see the red flags that were put in front of me by the providers around me at the time, that I see now. And like many other black women, I dismissed the lack of compassion and cold treatment I received during one of the darkest times in my life. 

Over the course of 5 years, I experienced 5 losses with the same medical practice. The provider I was under did not care to look for any additional interventions to help and see why I was experiencing consecutive pregnancy losses. Even though I asked numerous times about different options. It was always met with crude sarcastic remarks, which ultimately meant, no. And after the 5th loss, where I could have lost my life, my husband stepped in and said, enough was enough and we left that practice. This was my wake up call. I needed to take charge of my health because others will not if I don’t. 

I'm so grateful for my husband and his love and support. Through the losses, we weathered the storm of grief, and the emotional roller coaster that comes along with it. He has been my rock and support when I needed it most. 

Thanks to a dear friend, I was referred to my current obstetrics office. My doctor, midwife and all of the staff have become a breath of fresh air compared to my previous experience. Though I experienced 1 pregnancy loss with this office, my doctor did everything possible to find out what was happening with my body and was an advocate in helping me get the baby I desired for so long. 

Then with our 7th pregnancy, we welcome our sweet baby girl, earthside after 7 trying years. It was with my daughter that the fight and drive grew within me even more that I have to teach my girl to stand up for herself in any capacity, especially with her health. 

So, that brings me to these questions. As a black mother, are you advocating for your health? Do you have a team of providers and trained specialists that can be your ally and support?

I have some amazing women in the Northeast Florida region that are truly passionate about the maternal care of black mothers in our community. Connect with them clicking the links below. 

Postpartum Support: MommyTu

Doula: Lotus Ring Postpartum & Purely Nourishing Doula

Counseling: Her Hope Behavioral Health