Three-time Olympic medalist Tori Bowie, who tragically passed away at 32 years old in early May, was in the midst of labor and eight months pregnant at the time of her death. Her agent confirmed this heartbreaking detail on Monday, shedding light once again on the alarming issue of maternal mortality in the United States. An autopsy report from the Orlando medical examiner’s office revealed that Bowie may have experienced complications such as respiratory distress and eclampsia. Sadly, her baby, a little girl, was stillborn.
According to Dr. Alison Cowan, an OB-GYN and head of medical affairs at health technology company Mirvie, Bowie’s story represents the challenges faced in maternal health in the U.S. The fact that a young woman who was in peak physical condition and in the prime of her life could lose her life and her baby’s life to a potentially preventable pregnancy-related complication speaks volumes about the urgency of raising awareness. Although the specifics of Bowie’s case are unknown, it is a critical moment for us to reflect on how we can increase awareness about this preventable outcome.
The United States has the highest maternal mortality rate among developed nations, with an even greater risk for women of color. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Black women are at least three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes compared to White women. It’s essential to note that even women who were healthy before pregnancy can experience complications, as highlighted by the National Institutes of Health. Pregnancy-related deaths can occur at any stage, including during pregnancy, delivery, and up to a year postpartum.
Let’s delve into some of the major complications that can arise during labor:
1. Eclampsia: Eclampsia occurs when seizures, marked by shaking, confusion, and disorientation, develop during pregnancy. This condition is strongly linked to preeclampsia, which involves high blood pressure and protein in the urine during pregnancy. Individuals with pre-existing hypertension, a history of preeclampsia, or diabetes are at higher risk. It is crucial for women to have open conversations with their healthcare providers regarding their unique risks.
2. Heart Complications: Heart disease and stroke are the leading causes of maternal deaths during and after pregnancy. The CDC estimates that these complications contribute to over 34% of pregnancy-related deaths. Women may mistake stroke symptoms, such as headaches, dizziness, or tingling arms, for typical pregnancy-related issues. Sudden onset of symptoms should raise concern and may indicate the occurrence of a stroke. High blood pressure during pregnancy, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and blood clots are among the factors increasing the risk of stroke.
3. Postpartum Hemorrhage: Postpartum hemorrhage refers to severe vaginal bleeding after childbirth. This condition can be life-threatening, leading to a sharp decline in blood pressure and restricted blood flow to vital organs. Risk factors may include high blood pressure, preeclampsia, blood-clotting disorders, anemia, obesity, and older maternal age. However, postpartum hemorrhage can affect anyone after childbirth, even those without known risk factors.
Racial disparities in maternal mortality are a critical issue. In 2021, over 1,200 women in the U.S. died during or shortly after childbirth, reaching a six-decade high, according to the CDC. Studies have shown higher risks for unvaccinated women. Non-Hispanic Black women have a maternal mortality rate roughly 2.9 times that of non-Hispanic White women. Understanding the root causes of these disparities is a formidable challenge for public health experts. Poverty, discrimination, and inadequate care contribute to poor health outcomes for Black women. Fortunately, many of these deaths are preventable, and awareness, along with personalized action plans, can play a crucial role in improving health outcomes.
Dr. Cowan emphasizes the importance of predictive testing, translating knowledge into action and prevention to make a substantial impact on maternal mortality rates. By combining awareness, personalized care, and proactive measures, we can strive towards reducing these disparities and improving overall maternal health outcomes.
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