Black mothers and infants in Montgomery County face disproportionately higher rates of health complications, according to a report from the Office of Legislative Oversight. Commissioned by Councilmember Laurie-Anne Sayles, the report, Racial Disparities in Maternal and Infant Health Outcomes, reveals that the maternal morbidity rate for Black women is 54 percent higher than the countywide average.
The report found that Black individuals in Montgomery County experience considerably worse maternal and infant health outcomes, including the highest rates of severe maternal morbidity (SMM), cesarean births, preterm births, low birth weight, and fetal and infant deaths. The report also notes that one-third of severe maternal morbidity cases in Maryland are preventable. These disparities are expected to worsen as the county’s Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) population grows.
National research points to systemic racism, both inside and outside healthcare settings, as a key driver of these disparities, which persist even beyond income inequality. The report recommends a broad, multi-faceted approach to addressing these racial inequities.
According to the report, Black women make up less than 20 percent of the county’s population and account for about one-fifth of all births—yet they represent nearly 40 percent of cesarean deliveries, a procedure that increases health risks for both mother and child.
“Montgomery County is one of the healthiest counties in the United States, yet we are still rife with inequities, particularly for our mothers and babies,” said Councilmember Sayles, in a press release. “There is no acceptable reason for racial inequities in health care. Implementing equitable healthcare strategies is crucial to addressing maternal and infant health disparities so that every resident can lead fulfilling, safe, healthy, and happy lives.”
The report highlights that Black women have less access to midwives and doulas—support services linked to healthier pregnancy and postpartum outcomes.
“Addressing disparities in maternal and infant health requires bold, structural, and systemic changes,” Sayles added. “We must focus on equity, accountability, and community partnerships to ensure that every parent, regardless of race or zip code, has an equal opportunity for a healthy pregnancy and birth.”
The report’s findings align with statewide efforts to improve maternal and infant health.
In FY2025, the Maryland Secretary of Health prioritized women’s health with a Women’s Health Action Plan that focuses on advancing birth equity, particularly for Black mothers and infants.
The plan includes goals to protect reproductive rights, expand access to health services, and support behavioral health needs.
The report also arrives just ahead of Black Maternal Health Week, which runs from April 11 to 17, and National Public Health Week, April 7-13, both of which aim to raise awareness of racial disparities in maternal care.
