"Why isn't there a *White* Maternal Health Week?!"
It's Black Maternal Health Week so in case you hear this...I got you.
I’m sending out this week’s newsletter a few days early because I want you to have this information and resource at your fingertips sooner rather than later—maybe you can even use it to find an event near you! Please share this newsletter with friends and family to get the word out and help amplify support for such an important cause! -Dr. Jen
It’s Black Maternal Health Week 2025!
Black Maternal Health Week (BMHW) 2025 takes place from April 11–17, and this year’s theme is “Healing Legacies: Strengthening Black Maternal Health Through Collective Action and Advocacy.” This annual campaign, led by the Black Mamas Matter Alliance (BMMA), emphasizes the importance of community-driven efforts to address systemic inequities and promote holistic healing for Black mothers and birthing people.
Here’s why this week even exists — just in case you’re asked by someone, “Where is the WHITE Maternal Health Week?!”: (yeah, I know. But rather than just scream internally —or externally— if you hear this, here are some facts to help you respond constructively)
So yeah. That’s why.
When your likelihood of surviving what is for many the happiest day of your life is drastically influenced by the racism you experience because of the color of your skin, we can set aside a week to focus on it, right?
I suggest using this week to learn about why collective action and advocacy to address the systemic inequities affecting Black maternal health matters 24/7/365. And to help others learn how they can get involved too. Your voice is so needed!
Which leads me to…
How to Engage During #BMHW2025
Afraid to mess up or don’t know where to start? I got you. Here are actionable steps you can take this week to stay informed and make a meaningful impact.
1. Download the BMHW25 Toolkit
Access the official toolkit, which offers messaging guidance, key facts, talking points, sample social media posts, and graphics to help you engage effectively with the week's initiatives.
2. Show Up - In Person or Virtually
BMHW features a variety of events, including webinars, community walks, and educational sessions. Check the Events page to find activities happening in your area or online. Don’t see one that works for you? Make your own!
3. Support Black-Led Organizations
Offer your time, skills, or financial support to Black-led perinatal, maternal, and reproductive health organizations. Building relationships with these groups can foster community engagement and advance maternal health equity. No matter what industry you work in, there is a way to support Black birthing people and their babies.
4. Amplify the Movement
Use your platforms to share key messages, events, and advocacy actions outlined in the BMHW toolkit. Engaging in conversations and spreading awareness can help shift culture and promote systemic change. Consider searching the hashtags #BMHW2025 and #BlackMamasMatter for inspiration.
One idea: print some of the BMMA toolkit’s social media posts and put them up in your workplace breakroom, bathroom stalls, and elevators. You don’t need a million followers to have an impact!
5. Stay Connected All Year Long
Sign up for BMMA's e-newsletter and follow their social media to receive updates on Black maternal health news, advocacy efforts, and ways to take action.
By participating in BMHW 2025, you're contributing to a collective effort to ensure that Black mothers and birthing people receive the rights, respect, and resources they deserve.
Q&A: Is kombucha safe to drink in pregnancy?
A: Kombucha is one of those drinks that raises a lot of questions during pregnancy—and I can understand why. Kombucha is a fermented tea, which means it naturally contains some alcohol (usually less than 0.5%), caffeine, and live bacteria, so let’s talk about what to consider:
Alcohol content: Even though it’s low, kombucha can contain small amounts of alcohol due to fermentation (and some homemade or unregulated versions may have higher levels). We don’t have a level of alcohol in pregnancy that we know is safe, so I can’t tell you if what you drink in the occasional kombucha will have a negative impact on your developing baby. If you want to avoid any possible risk, then skipping the kombucha in pregnancy may be your best bet.
Unpasteurized product: Many kombuchas are unpasteurized to preserve their live cultures, which increases the risk of exposure to harmful bacteria like listeria and salmonella. You definitely don’t want to be exposed to these when pregnant, so if you choose to drink kombucha, opt for only pasteurized ones.
Caffeine: Kombucha is typically made from black or green tea, so it does contain some caffeine. While a little caffeine is fine in pregnancy (most guidelines say under 200 mg per day is safe), it’s good to keep track if you’re also drinking coffee or other caffeinated drinks.
Sugar: Some brands can have quite a bit of added sugar, which is worth considering especially if you have diabetes in pregnancy.
Bottom line: If you’re craving kombucha, it’s best to choose a pasteurized, store-bought version with clear labeling and drink it in moderation — or replace it with something else to hit the spot if you want to minimize exposure to alcohol. If you're unsure or have any specific health concerns, check in with your OB or midwife.
Want to get your question answered in the BBC newsletter? Shoot me a message and I’ll incorporate them into future newsletters!
*no personalized medical advice*
Spotlight on Health in Her Hue
Health in Her Hue is a digital platform dedicated to bridging the gap between Black women, women of color, and culturally competent healthcare providers. It offers a suite of resources designed to empower women to make informed health decisions and advocate for equitable care.
Key features include:
Provider Directory: A searchable database to find culturally responsive healthcare professionals who understand the unique needs of your community.
Care Squads: Virtual peer support groups that connect women facing similar health challenges, fostering community and shared learning.
CarePoint: A platform where users can submit health questions and receive personalized video responses from medical professionals.
Content Library: Access to a wide range of articles and videos on topics such as reproductive health, mental wellness, and chronic disease management.
By centering the experiences of women of color, Health in Her Hue aims to promote health equity and ensure that all women receive respectful, informed, and culturally sensitive care.
For more information, visit healthinherhue.com.
Until next time,
Dr. Jen