Helping Moms Get the Care They Need

America has the highest rate of moms dying from pregnancy-related issues among wealthy nations.

The Crisis

• Over 20% of these deaths are linked to substance abuse and mental health problems.
• The postpartum period, often called the "fourth trimester," is just as crucial as the three trimesters.
• About one in seven women experiences depression during or after pregnancy.

The MAMA Act

Some lawmakers are pushing for a new law called the Mental Health and Making Access More Affordable (MAMA) Act.

Key Points:

• Aims to make mental health care and addiction treatment more accessible for moms.
• Removes copays for these services during pregnancy and the first year after giving birth.

Substance Use Disorders

• The opioid crisis has hit pregnant women hard, with rates of opioid use disorder quadrupling between 1999 and 2014.
• Drug overdose rates for pregnant and postpartum women skyrocketed by 81% between 2017 and 2020.

The Impact

• Fear of discrimination, especially among women of color, often stops moms from seeking help.
• Increasing access to treatment could save lives.

Maternal Health Awareness Day

The MAMA Act renews the commitment to improving maternal health. It's a step towards a society where every mom gets the care she needs.

Congress has a crucial role to play in making this vision a reality.