For black mothers, the need for support during birth is even greater. Black women are 2.5 times more likely to die in childbirth than white women—at least in part because of institutional racism.
Despite feeling blessed with my son, I was extremely weak and was not recovering, even after several weeks had passed. I made an appointment with a cardiologist who immediately sent me to the hospital, where I was admitted for advanced heart failure and wouldn't leave for two months.
New research suggests that even with all the high tech resources available, most pregnant women still seek advice and emotional support from their own mom, and rank her guidance as being more meaningful than other recommendations.
Pelvic exams are difficult enough as it is. The assessment of one's hymen, especially if done under emotional duress, can be indescribably traumatic physically and emotionally.
