In Louisiana, the death rate for pregnant women is twice the national average and the leading cause of death for expectant mothers is homicide, that’s according to a joint study between Tulane and LSU. Other causes of death are preeclampsia and car crashes. These numbers come as no surprise unfortunately to Mariah Wineski Executive Director of the Louisiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence.
“So, I think what’s been missing from the conversation is that realization that homicide, just like many of these medical causes, is also preventable,” says Wineski.
Of the 119 pregnancy-related deaths in Louisiana from January 2016 to December 2017, 13-percent were homicides. Wineski says healthcare providers can help identify women who might need assistance if they are in a dangerous situation.
“We need to be getting to a place where we’re also looking at risk factors for homicide and also act on those as well, so it really draws attention to the very important role that healthcare providers can play,” says Wineski
Maternal deaths are defined as anything occurring during pregnancy or the year after birth. Wineski highly encourages females in a domestic situation that fall into this category, to seek help immediately.
“And I would encourage them to seek support from loved ones. I would encourage them to really understand the great risk that domestic violence during pregnancy poses to them and the unborn child,” Wineski expressed.
If you are experiencing domestic violence contact the Louisiana Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-888-411-1333 for assistance.
