Why Are Maternal Death Rates in the U.S. So High?

The Doctors discuss the possible reasons why maternal deaths rates in America occur at such high rates compared to the rate in other countries.
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The Doctors is an Emmy award-winning daytime talk show hosted by ER physician Dr. Travis Stork, plastic surgeon Dr. Andrew Ordon and OB-GYN Dr. Nita Landry.
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[@sofsjo]

Real reason the rates are so high:
1. Access to health care - When I had my baby in Sweden I had free bi-weekly checkups plus free weekly bloodtests because of a thyroid condition, 4 free ultrasounds (1-2 for normal pregnancies) and a total of 200 dollars for hospital stay for me and my husband for 5 days when preeclampsia was discovered.
2. No social security net. If i were determined unfit to work while pregnant here I would still receive 80% of my salary leading up to birth. After that I would get paid maternity leave with 80% of my pay. 480 days to split between me and my partner. So here we dont need to stress as much.
The doctor did have a point about obesity though. Although here they would put you in contact with a dietician.

[@SunshineRox007]

His point about obesity makes sense if they can state that most of the women who die during labor are obese.

[@romeoespina2736]

When health is a privilege rather than a basic need. Healthcare is too expensive it becomes a business.

[@SuperTinkerbell1985]

that's an easy answer, in the US birth is treated as a medical procedure. The high rates of intervention, c sections, epidurals/drugs, even the fact you are almost made to lie flat on your back giving birth. In most other countries you labour at home until you are well into labour, you are encouraged to get up move around, birth in a position that is comfortable for you. You can't get epidurals past a certain point because it slows labour and make birth difficult. Obviously there are times when medical intervention is required but most births if left to progress naturally will result in a healthy baby and mother.

[@divinelove1273]

I agree with the dr in the audience!!! 100%