Did you know that in the United States, teens of color experience roughly twice the rate of pregnancies compared to white teens? Additionally, an estimated 19 million women in the U.S. live in contraceptive deserts, where access to a full range of contraceptive methods is limited. These disparities not only affect individual women but also have ripple effects in communities across the country. Shockingly, the teen birth rate in Texas recently increased for the first time in 15 years, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to address these challenges.
Understanding Unplanned Pregnancy
Unplanned pregnancy is a complex issue, influenced by various factors in your life and community. Effective solutions must be diverse, targeting areas of high unmet need and addressing systemic inequities. Organon, a global healthcare company specializing in women’s health, is launching new initiatives across the country as part of its “Her Plan is Her Power” ESG initiative. initiative to reduce unplanned pregnancy rates and support women’s health issues in local communities. This initiative emphasizes the importance of comprehensive and community-focused approaches to addressing the complex challenges surrounding unplanned pregnancy.
Empowering Women’s Health with Dr. Charlotte Owens
Dr. Charlotte Owens, Head of Medical Affairs and Outcomes Research, is leading the charge in this initiative, focusing on raising awareness about reproductive health issues among college students, particularly at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), She is dedicated to promoting access to contraception and reproductive healthcare services on HBCU campuses, believing that empowering young women with information and resources is essential for their overall health and well-being.
BlackDoctor.org sat down with Dr. Owens, a renowned obstetrician-gynecologist, to discuss the challenges and opportunities in maternal health, contraception, and reproductive health, particularly in underserved communities, what can be done to improve outcomes in these critical areas and what women can do to take charge of their health.
RELATED: 7 Things Pregnant Black Women Can Do to Be Heard by Doctors
What You Need to Know About Maternal Health
1. Your Risk Matters
As a Black woman, Dr. Owens emphasizes that understanding your elevated risk of maternal mortality and morbidity is crucial for advocating for the care you deserve. She stresses, “Know your family’s medical history, as it can help you and your healthcare provider assess your risk factors and develop a personalized care plan.”
Education is also vital. Dr. Owens advises, “Educate yourself about pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care to make informed decisions.” She encourages open communication with healthcare providers, stating, “Don’t hesitate to ask questions about your care, treatment options, and any concerns you may have.” Seeking a second opinion if you’re unsure about a diagnosis or treatment plan is perfectly acceptable, she adds, emphasizing, “Know your rights and advocate for respectful and equitable care during pregnancy and childbirth.”
In building a support network, Dr. Owens underscores the importance of having family, friends, and healthcare providers who can offer guidance and assistance during pregnancy and motherhood. “Having people who can support you emotionally and physically can make a big difference in your pregnancy journey,” she adds.
Advocating for culturally competent care is also paramount, according to Dr. Owens. She advises, “Seek out healthcare providers who are culturally competent and understand the unique challenges faced by Black women in maternal health.”
2. Prenatal Care is Key
To maintain a healthy pregnancy, it’s crucial to start prenatal care early.
“Begin prenatal care as soon as you think you might be pregnant, or as soon as you confirm your pregnancy. Early care can help identify and address any potential issues early on,” Dr. Owens notes.
She also stresses the significance of attending all scheduled prenatal visits, noting, “Regular check-ups are essential for monitoring your health and the health of your baby. These visits track your baby’s growth and development and address any concerns that may arise.”
Maintaining a healthy diet is another key component of prenatal care.
Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Avoid alcohol, tobacco, and recreational drugs, as they can harm your baby. Staying active is also important. Physical activity can help you maintain a healthy weight and reduce stress during pregnancy.
Taking prenatal vitamins daily is essential. Prenatal vitamins ensure you’re getting enough essential nutrients, such as folic acid, iron, and calcium, which are crucial for your baby’s development.
Managing stress is also crucial, and Dr. Owens suggests, “Find healthy ways to manage stress, such as meditation, yoga, or talking to a counselor.” She emphasizes the importance of education, stating, “Learn about the changes happening in your body during pregnancy and what to expect during labor and delivery. Being informed can help you feel more confident and prepared.”
Open and honest communication with healthcare providers is key, as Dr. Owens notes, “Be open and honest with your healthcare provider about any symptoms or concerns you may have. They are there to support you and ensure you have a healthy pregnancy.”
Staying hydrated is an important and often overlooked part of prenatal care. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to stay hydrated, which is important for both you and your baby. Finally, getting plenty of rest is crucial, as pregnancy can be tiring, so make sure to prioritize sleep and relaxation.
3. Mental Health Matters
Pregnancy and childbirth can be stressful, and Black women may face additional challenges due to systemic racism and social determinants of health.
“Maintaining good mental health is essential during pregnancy. It’s important for women to prioritize their mental well-being and seek support if needed,” Dr. Owens shares.
4. Contraception is Not One-Size-Fits-All
There are many contraception options available, but access may be limited for some women.
“It’s crucial to have open and honest conversations with your healthcare provider about your contraceptive needs and preferences. This will help ensure that you find the method that works best for you,” Dr. Owens shares.
She emphasizes the significance of consistency for methods like pills or patches, noting, “For contraceptive methods that require regular use, such as pills or patches, consistency is essential. Make sure to follow the instructions carefully and use the method consistently to maximize its effectiveness.”
Dr. Owens also recommends considering long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs).“Long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs), such as intrauterine devices (IUDs) and implants, are highly effective and can provide long-term contraception with minimal maintenance. These options are worth considering for many women,” she adds.
Dual protection is another avenue of contraception that you may explore. Using condoms in addition to another form of contraception can provide dual protection against both pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). This is especially important if you are not in a mutually monogamous relationship.
It’s important to have regular check-ups with your healthcare provider when using contraception to ensure that the method continues to be safe and effective for you. Emergency contraception is available for use after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. It’s important to be aware of these options and how to access them if needed.
If you are sure which contraceptive method is best for you, consider what your future plans are. Some methods, such as sterilization, are permanent, while others can be discontinued when you’re ready to conceive.
Lastly, Dr. Owens encourages considering the cost and accessibility of different contraceptive methods.“Some methods may be more affordable or easier to access than others, depending on your insurance coverage and location.”
Dr. Owens believes that education is key to making informed decisions about contraception. “Empower yourself with knowledge about the available options and their pros and cons to find the method that best suits your needs and lifestyle,” she advises.
When it comes to contraceptives, you have options. To find a method that fits your body and your life, visit Bedsider.
By taking charge of your reproductive health, you can improve your overall well-being and contribute to healthier communities for generations to come.