Black Women Are Being Let Down By Maternal Healthcare
A recent report by Five X More, reveals the stark disparities Black women face in maternal healthcare: Black mothers in England are nearly twice as likely to have their births investigated for NHS safety failings compared to white mothers, and they face significantly higher risks during childbirth, including a fourfold increase in the likelihood of dying during pregnancy or childbirth. These findings underscore a systemic issue within the healthcare system that urgently needs addressing.
At Nafsiyat, we are acutely aware of the impact that systemic bias and discrimination can have on the mental health and wellbeing of individuals from marginalised communities. The experiences shared by Black mothers, as detailed in the Five X More report, reflect a broader issue of institutional failures that permeate not only the healthcare system but also many other areas of society. These failures can lead to long-lasting trauma and psychological distress, which is where organisations like Nafsiyat play a crucial role.
Nafsiyat was founded on the principle of providing culturally sensitive and accessible therapy to those who often fall through the cracks of mainstream services. Our work is grounded in the belief that mental health support must be inclusive and reflective of the diverse cultural backgrounds of our clients. The disparities faced by Black women in maternal healthcare are a clear example of why culturally competent care is essential.
The trauma associated with negative healthcare experiences can have profound effects on mental health. Many Black women report feeling unheard, dismissed, and undervalued by healthcare professionals, which can lead to feelings of isolation, anxiety, and depression. At Nafsiyat, we understand that these experiences are not just isolated incidents but part of a broader pattern of systemic bias. We are committed to providing a safe space where individuals can process these experiences and receive the support they need to heal.
Moreover, the stereotypes and assumptions that contribute to these disparities—such as the belief that Black women have a higher pain tolerance or are less educated—are deeply rooted in societal biases. These biases not only affect the quality of care provided but also the mental wellbeing of those subjected to them. Nafsiyat's intercultural approach to therapy seeks to challenge and deconstruct these harmful stereotypes by fostering understanding and empathy across cultural lines.
As an organisation dedicated to intercultural therapy, Nafsiyat recognises the importance of addressing the mental health implications of racial and ethnic disparities in healthcare. We believe that mental health care should be an integral part of the conversation around maternal health. When women are supported emotionally and psychologically, they are better equipped to advocate for themselves and their families.
The disparities in maternal healthcare experienced by Black women are a clear indication of the systemic biases that persist in our society. Nafsiyat's work is directly aligned with the need to address these issues, not only through providing culturally sensitive mental health support but also by offering our Intercultural Development Training services. These training sessions are designed to equip healthcare professionals and organisations with the skills and awareness needed to recognise and address their biases, ensuring more equitable care for all.