The city of Philadelphia is confronting a critical public health issue head-on with the release of a new report on severe maternal morbidity (SMM). The Philadelphia Department of Public Health collaborated with Birth Justice Philly to shine a light on motherhood dangers, specifically life-threatening complications during childbirth. The report, "Severe Maternal Morbidity in Philadelphia, 2016-2022", highlights that SMM has impacted an average of 178 birthing people annually during this period.
The report draws on data from the Pennsylvania Health Care Cost Containment Council (PHC4) and reveals concerns not just about immediate health risks but also long-term implications for mothers. Dr. Aasta D. Mehta, MD, MPP, of the Philadelphia Department of Public Health, emphasized the value in investigating SMM. "Investigating severe maternal morbidity events in Philadelphia significantly enhances our understanding of maternal health challenges," she told the Philadelphia Department of Public Health. "And it provides critical insights into preventing these complications in the future."
Key findings detailed that individuals under 20 or above 35, and non-Hispanic Black birthing people, are at a higher risk of SMM than other groups. A rising trend in SMM cases since 2018 raises concerns, mirroring the national situation, which could be attributed to increasing rates of preexisting conditions and changes in maternal age demographics.
As a response, the Division of Maternal, Child, and Family Health is channeling efforts into proactive initiatives. The Philly Joy Bank pilot, for example, supports pregnant Philadelphians with in a monthly stipend from the second trimester of their pregnancy through the first year post-birth. Included in the family support package are services such as financial counseling and breastfeeding assistance. On top of that, an educational campaign has been rolled out to improve awareness of post-birth complication signs.
For those seeking comprehensive data and surveillance of local trends in maternal health, more information can be found through Birth Justice Philly's latest programs. They've also taken the lead with the inauguration of the country's first county-level Maternal Mortality Review Committee, hoping to better understand and address the factors behind maternal deaths.
