# Black maternal health disparities in the United States > Developing situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/black-maternal-health-disparities-in-the-united-states > Updated: 2026-09-30T19:58:31.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2. Black women in the United States face disproportionately high maternal and infant mortality rates compared to white women. Research and health officials indicate that these disparities are driven by structural racism, medical bias, and communication gaps between patients and providers. In North Carolina, Black women are nearly twice as likely to die from pregnancy complications, while studies suggest that even highly educated Black women often have their medical concerns minimized. In response to these systemic issues, community-led initiatives have emerged to promote alternative care models. In California, where Black women face the state’s highest pregnancy-related mortality rate, organizers have launched wellness expos to promote “community-rooted birth care” involving midwives and doulas. Similarly, in Brooklyn, high infant mortality rates in specific neighborhoods have led some mothers to seek midwifery and vaginal births after Cesarean section (VBAC) to avoid perceived medical mistreatment. ## Timeline ### 2026-09-30: Black maternal mortality crisis drives community-led healthcare initiatives Black mothers and infants face significantly higher mortality rates in the US, driving community-led efforts in Brooklyn and California to provide specialized, culturally rooted birthing support. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/black-maternal-mortality-crisis-drives-community-led-healthcare-initiatives ### 2026-09-27: Black maternal health disparities linked to racism and communication gaps Black women in the U.S. face significantly higher maternal mortality rates. Researchers and advocates link these disparities to structural racism, medical bias, and poor communication between providers and many 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/black-maternal-health-disparities-linked-to-racism-and-communication-gaps --- Cite as: Black maternal health disparities in the United States. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/black-maternal-health-disparities-in-the-united-states