Reproductive Justice: A Framework for Improving Maternal Mental Health

The United States has the highest rate of maternal deaths compared to any high-income country, with the highest rate for Black women. Mental health conditions such as Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMAD) are the most common complication during the perinatal period and the leading cause of pregnancy-related death in the U.S. Nurses following a Reproductive Justice framework can improve perinatal mental health outcomes. The purpose of this article is to review the current maternal mental health crisis through the lens of the Reproductive Justice movement. By utilizing the three Reproductive Justice principles as a framework, this article will identify action steps that nurses can take today to help create a culture of health for mothers and babies.