The Hidden Statistics of Hispanic Maternal Health—And How Birth Support Changes the Story

September is Hispanic Heritage Month!

As we honor Hispanic Heritage Month, it’s essential to shine light on a truth often overlooked: while Hispanic maternal health statistics may appear comparable to—or even better than—some groups, the hidden disparities and costs tell a deeper story—and one where Bold Birth–aligned doula care can truly shift outcomes.

"The data doesn’t just reveal disparities—it ignites a call to action."

The Numbers You Might Not See

• In 2023, the U.S. maternal mortality rate for Hispanic women stood at 12.4 deaths per 100,000 live births, lower than White (14.5) and far lower than Black women (50.3) (CDC, Policy Center for Maternal Mental Health).

• Infant mortality rates for Hispanic mothers are similar to, but slightly higher than, those of White mothers—4.9 vs. 4.5 per 1,000 births (KFF, Office of Minority Health).

  
  

• Yet beneath these averages, disparities emerge:

  • Puerto Rican infants face a 6.3 per-1,000 infant death rate, about 40% higher than non-Hispanic Whites (Office of Minority Health).

  • Hispanic mothers are nearly twice as likely to receive no prenatal care or begin it late compared to White mothers; Central and South American mothers are 2.7× more likely (Office of Minority Health).

    
    

Access issues matter: Hispanic expectant mothers are 2.5× more likely than non-Hispanic White mothers to begin prenatal care late or not at all. And, while maternal mortality rates are lower, the out-of-pocket maternity costs incurred by Hispanic patients remain disproportionately high, mirroring the heavier financial burden seen among Black families—an obstacle in its own right.

Breaking Through: How Bold Birth Support Makes a Difference

This is where bold birth doula care offers not just support but a transformative opportunity:

• Doulas offering continuous, culturally attentive support are proven to reduce cesarean deliveries and preterm births, and even lower perinatal costs (American Journal of Public Health, Verywell Family, PMC).

  • One study found a 47% lower risk of C-section, a 29% lower risk of preterm birth, and up to 46% higher likelihood of a positive birth outcome for those with doulas (American Journal of Public Health).

• NYC’s Citywide Doula Initiative, serving Black and Hispanic pregnant people, showed measurable reductions in C-section rates, preterm births, and low-birth-weight babies (NYC Comptroller's Office).

• Doulas trained from within communities—who share culture, language, and experience—bridge critical gaps in care, communication, and advocacy.

  
  

Moving from Awareness to Action

The disparities in Hispanic maternal health aren’t inevitable—they’re addressable. Every family deserves not just a healthy birth, but birth support—where care, respect, and empowerment are the standard.

As a doula, my role is to walk alongside families through every stage of this journey, ensuring they have the knowledge, confidence, and advocacy they need. When we combine community trust with proven birth support, we don’t just improve statistics—we change stories.

Your Next Step Toward a Supported Birth

If you’re expecting—or planning to grow your family—and want to feel informed, empowered, and fully supported, I’ve created two ways to help you start today:

1. Download My Bold Birth Advocacy Toolkit: Packed with evidence-based resources, birth planning templates, and advocacy tips designed to help you feel confident and in control—no matter your birth setting.

2. Schedule Your Free Birth Doula Consultation: We’ll talk about your vision for your birth, explore your options, and discuss how personalized doula support can improve your birth experience.

   
   

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