The Harris Poll recently released its Third Annual State of Maternal Health Report, which offers a snapshot of what it means to be pregnant and give birth in America. The 2025 report underscores a troubling truth: women don’t feel heard, informed, or in control of their care. Despite advances in technology, research, and policy, the foundation of maternal health — the patient experience — remains fractured.
The report reflects that pregnant patients still feel like passive participants rather than active decision-makers. True empowerment means informed choice — knowing your options, understanding their implications, and being trusted to make decisions about your own body.
The Harris Poll data show that this isn’t happening consistently. Expectant mothers, especially younger women, Hispanic women, and those cared for by midwives, report disproportionately high rates of unmet mental health needs. Across the board, women reported major gaps in communication and education. Many said they weren’t adequately informed about their birthing options, potential risks, or even basic topics like birthing positions — something that can profoundly affect labor outcomes and recovery.
When Women Aren’t Heard, Care Suffers
Empowered birthing isn’t just about feeling respected — it’s about outcomes. The data shows that women who feel listened to and supported experience fewer complications, lower rates of postpartum depression, and higher satisfaction with their birth. Conversely, poor communication can lead to fear, mistrust, and even unnecessary interventions.
The report also highlights significant postpartum gaps. Most women still receive only a single checkup six weeks after delivery, despite overwhelming evidence that physical and emotional recovery extends well beyond that point. Many encounter breastfeeding difficulties but lack access to adequate lactation support. Others face limited mental health resources or return to work before they’ve fully healed — a reflection of paid leave policies that most women agree are insufficient.
This pattern supports a perverse pattern: once the baby is born, the system moves on — even though the mother’s journey is far from over.
Re-Centering the Patient in Maternal Care
Fixing this disconnect means rebuilding the maternal health system around the patient, not the process. The Harris Poll calls for better communication and education at every stage of pregnancy, more consistent postpartum support, and policies that reflect the real needs of new mothers.
Every woman should have the right to understand her options, ask questions without judgment, and feel confident that her voice matters in every decision about her care.
It also means investing in the supports that make empowered birthing possible — doulas, lactation consultants, extended postpartum visits, and paid leave policies that recognize the realities of recovery and parenting. These aren’t “extras.” They’re essential components of safe, respectful, and effective maternal care.
The Harris Poll makes it clear: mothers are telling us what they need. They need more information. More support. More time. And most of all, they need to be heard.
Submit a comment