The maternal mortality crisis is about more than just healthcare—it’s a reflection of deep social, economic, and structural inequities that disproportionately affect marginalized communities around the world. In this episode of Higher Education with Dr. Fran, Dr. B Fran examines the complex web of factors contributing to maternal death and morbidity, from systemic discrimination in healthcare settings to lack of infrastructure like sidewalks that prevent pregnant people from taking part in simple recommendations like walking. The episode also explores the devastating role of gender-based violence, which is emerging as a leading cause of maternal death, especially in the wake of changes to reproductive rights in the United States.

From healthcare settings that perpetuate discrimination to the social and environmental conditions that shape the lived experiences of pregnant people, this episode shows that the maternal health crisis is far more than a problem of access or quality of care—it’s a call for comprehensive, cross-sectoral solutions to protect the lives of mothers across the lifecourse.This episode is a call for a reimagined approach—one that addresses the root causes of maternal mortality by centering equity, justice, and systemic change. How do we build a world where every person, regardless of race, class, or gender, has access to the care, protection, and opportunities they need to thrive throughout pregnancy and beyond? We explore what policies, practices, and societal shifts are needed to create a truly equitable maternal health system.

Join us as we rethink the crisis—and the solutions—in a way that makes equity not just an aspiration, but a foundational principle for global maternal health.

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