The Maternal Equity Project’s Post

The United States consistently falls behind comparable high-income countries in maternal mortality prevention. Violent causes of death outnumber obstetrical causes, and homicide is now a leading cause of death of pregnant and postpartum women. Maternal Mortality Review Committees (MMRCs) are multidisciplinary teams that work at the state or local level to review deaths that occurred during or within a year of pregnancy. As of 2023, MMRCs are present in 49 states, 3 US cities, and 1 US territory. These deaths are not reflected in the MMRC data, over half of these deaths correlate with intimate partner violence. Isn't it time that we stop ignoring homicide as the leading cause of maternal death? DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2024.02.296

In life and work, supporting others only helps everyone shine brighter. Blowing out someone else’s candle doesn’t make yours glow any stronger—it only dims the room for everyone. True success comes from lifting others up, not tearing them down. Focus instead on collaboration, kindness, and empowering each other to succeed. #SupportEachOther

Happy Neonatal Nurses Week. Providing the best care for our tiniest patients!

When cussing isn't such a bad thing. CUS Concerned: I am concerned Uncomfortable: I am uncomfortable Safety: I feel this poses a safety risk See the video for an example of escalation in a labor and delivery unit from the AHRQ https://lnkd.in/dHCjwGkx

AJOG's Expert Review: Birthing balls to decrease labor pain and peanut balls to decrease length of labor: what is the evidence? Findings: --It’s been shown to significantly reduce maternal pain. The exact reason for its pain-relieving effect is unclear, but it may reduce pressure on nerves near the iliosacral joint or work through the gate control theory of pain. --Based on current evidence, the birthing ball can be a helpful option for those laboring without an epidural as part of their pain management strategy. --While research on its effectiveness varies, the latest studies suggest that using a peanut ball may shorten the first stage of labor and increase the likelihood of a vaginal delivery by about 11%. Therefore, it can be considered a useful tool for those laboring with an epidural to help progress labor. --Both the birthing ball and peanut ball are simple, low-cost, and safe interventions that can be offered to patients during labor. https://lnkd.in/e_mG9R83

Today's thought.

Have you incorporated a movement and positioning program to decrease your Primary (NTSV) Cesarean rate https://lnkd.in/eusc4Hfc