A new study from the University of Cambridge suggests that stress from racism and deprivation may explain why black women are more likely to die during childbirth. The research, published in the journal Trends in Endocrinology and Metabolism, reviewed 44 existing studies and found that black women had higher levels of oxidative stress, inflammation, and uteroplacental vascular resistance—three physiological pathways associated with worse pregnancy outcomes.
According to the researchers, these physiological differences are not due to genetic factors but rather reflect the biological impact of socioenvironmental stressors such as systemic racism and socioeconomic disadvantage. Lead author Grace Amedor said: 'Pregnancy and childbirth put great stress on a woman’s body. Black women may experience additional strain due to factors including systemic racism, socioeconomic disadvantage and environmental stressors.'
The study notes that increased uteroplacental vascular resistance can reduce blood flow to the placenta, while higher oxidative stress occurs when damaging molecules overwhelm the body’s antioxidant defences. High inflammation levels are also linked to complications such as pre-eclampsia, preterm birth, and foetal growth restrictions.
In the UK, black women are 2.7 times more likely to die during childbirth compared with white women, and black babies are twice as likely to be stillborn. Senior author Professor Dino Giussani said: 'We’ve found these exposures can disproportionally affect black women’s bodies, making them less able to function healthily during pregnancy.'
Dr Jenny Barber of the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists called the findings 'unacceptable' and urged coordinated government action to tackle root causes of inequality and invest in maternity services.
