Amber Grady
April 11 – 17 is Black Maternal Health Week, a federally recognized awareness week that shines a light on important issues surrounding Black maternal health.
In recognition of Black Maternal Health Week, we would like to thank Amber Grady who is a black mother and Clinical Specialist at Woman’s Hospital Inpatient Pharmacy. Amber provides pharmacy support to our neonatal patient population and serves as the antimicrobial stewardship pharmacist for the hospital. Amber advocates for the well-being of all women, especially black women.
- Why did you choose Woman’s Hospital to give birth?
I chose to give birth at the Women’s Hospital because this is our area of expertise. Giving birth in a hospital that focuses on maternal and fetal health was very important to me, especially as a first time mother. I wanted to deliver somewhere that could handle any complications should they arise.
- Why did you choose natural birth (an often taboo birthing style in the black community)?
I always envisioned myself having a natural birth. At first, I felt like I should have had a better reason, but then I realized that this was my birth experience and I deserved to have what I envisioned for myself. I talked to my doctor and we decided that we would plan on having a natural birth, but with the option to change my mind if I needed to. I recommend having a birth plan but also being flexible because babies are not always predictable.
- Did you have any concerns?
Having a baby is always a scary experience. As a healthcare professional, I have seen many potential complications and it could be really unsettling at times knowing that it could be me. I was lucky to have a good support system when I struggled during my pregnancy and postpartum journey and I’m grateful for that.
- Even though you’re an employee at Woman’s, have there been times when you’ve felt unheard?
Overall, I had a very good experience at Woman’s Hospital. I remember having to come to the Assessment Center early in my pregnancy and being afraid that they wouldn’t take me seriously, but that wasn’t the case. There was a time I had to see a nurse because my doctor was in emergency surgery and I was discussing my ongoing struggle with morning sickness and hyperemesis. The practitioner told me I shouldn’t really struggle with it since I was over 14 weeks and I should try to eat more protein. I remember thinking I’m eating whatever I can keep down and I know many women struggle with overeating for their entire pregnancy. Although this experience was not the best, I was really impressed because the doctor called me the next day to check on me as he had missed our appointment and was very understanding of my ongoing struggles and asked if I needed additional medication.
- How did you learn how to stand up for your health?
It can be difficult to feel comfortable advocating for yourself. I’ve seen so many patients who don’t want to complain or make a fuss and when they finally speak up for themselves it’s too late. I think seeing these cases taught me that you know your body better than anyone else and that if you don’t speak up then no one will ever know.
- How do you recommend black women expectant mothers advocate for themselves?
I think the first step to advocating for yourself is choosing a health care team that you can trust and that makes you feel comfortable. This is such an important decision, and I often hear women talk about how their doctor didn’t take their concerns seriously. Pregnancy is a beautiful journey, but it is also a dangerous one. Take your time when choosing your health group. I also recommend that you take the time to learn what you can expect from pregnancy. Remember, it’s always best to ask your questions and raise any concerns you may have.
- Why is it so important for this demographic to stand up for themselves?
While things are improving, there are still many misconceptions in healthcare and society regarding black women. We are still much more likely to die in childbirth, so we need to do everything we can to support our health. Black women should feel empowered to speak up for themselves and prioritize their health.
At Woman’s Hospital, it is our priority to provide our mothers-to-be with the best healthcare and resources to prepare for a healthy pregnancy and safe labor and delivery. Click here to learn more about the resources we provide.
