Saving new moms from the surprising leading cause of maternal death

Preserving a mom’s health means protecting an entire family. While many people are aware of medical risks post pregnancy, which adversely affect Black women, there is another big worry, and it’s a leading cause of maternal death nationwide in all demographics.

Dr Robin Drake is an OBGYN at Rush and says substance use disorder and suicide drive the majority of pregnancy-related deaths during the first year after giving birth.

“About one in five women will suffer from a postpartum mental health disorder,” Drank said. “And for Black women, it’s especially pronounced. About 40 percent of Black women or birthing persons will experience a mood disorder.”

The statistics encompass the first year after giving birth. Drake says scarce mental health resources, particularly in black communities, play a role, as does stigma around seeking mental health treatment.

“We know postpartum is a stressful time for all new parents and so especially when someone is feeling overwhelmed, stressed, depressed they can relapse into substance use disorder again,” Drake said.

Endeavor Health’s Dr Ann Borders wants to spread the word — and numbers — critical for saving those in crisis. She’s worked tirelessly across the state to build networks for maternal care.

“The opioid crisis is going on in our country and pregnant women have not been spared,” she said. “These deaths are 100 percent preventable.”

There are multiple resources in Illinois.

The Illinois Moms line is run out of Evanston hospital but covers the entire state 24 hours a day:
866-364-MOMS (866.364.6667)

MarNow (Medication Assisted Recovery) is a 24-hour hotline that links pregnant and post-partum patients living with opioid use disorder to treatment programs.
833-234-6343 or text “HELP” to 833234

The Family Connects program pairs Chicago patients with a registered nurse for a virtual or in-home visit three-to-five weeks post delivery
f amilyconnects@rush.edu 312-942-3423.

The Postpartum Depression Alliance of Illinois provides support and information to women and their families.
PPDIL warmline 1-847-205-4455

And, of course, the 9-8-8 Suicide and crisis lifeline is always available to anyone in distress.

“One maternal death is too many and our job is to make sure every pregnant patient and family has a healthy mom and healthy baby at end of that pregnancy,” Borders said.

Doctors say linking birthing hospitals and community partners, like home visit services, is a critical step in helping new moms receive the follow up and focused care they need to thrive.

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