A year-long investigation into UK maternity care has found that “systemic racism” is experienced by black, Asian and mixed ethnicity women. Charity Birthrights said the findings included evidence of a lack of physical and psychological safety; experiences of being ignored and disbelieved; dehumanisation; coercion and a lack of choice and consent.
Inquiry chair Shaheen Rahman QC said the investigation was spurred on by the knowledge that black women in the UK are four times more likely to die in pregnancy and childbirth and Asian and mixed race women twice as likely. “There is nothing ‘wrong’ with Black or Brown bodies that can explain away the disparities in maternal mortality rates, outcomes and experiences,” she said.
“What is required now is a determined focus on individualised, rights-respecting care.” The inquiry panel heard evidence from over 300 people with lived and professional experience of racial injustice in maternity care.
