Haitian Women’s Birth Equity Report

In NYC, Black women are 8 times more likely to die from pregnancy compared to their white counterparts.  This unacceptable disparity results from structural racism which contributes to differential social determinants of health, quality of care at institutions and personally-mediated racism. 

Studies into Severe Maternal Morbidity (SMM), considered a ‘near miss’ complication of pregnancy, has also shown Black-White disparities. Studies into SMM also revealed that foreign-born women have the highest risk in NYC. 

Women born in Haiti have the highest risk of SMM.  To date, there have not been any studies into contributing factors or targeted interventions to address the increased risk of pregnancy complications among Haitian-born women.  The Haitian Women’s Birth Equity Initiative was formed to address the increased risk of poor outcomes in this community.

Given the history, cultural and language differences, the Haitian community’s barriers to care and services are unique. Successful engagement requires trust and cultural alignment. HWBE is here to help.