Maternal mortality and morbidity in the U.S. have risen in recent years, becoming a bigger public health concern. Within this crisis, racial and ethnic disparities in maternal health are persistent and alarming, especially given that Black women are three to four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women. Postpartum hemorrhage is one of the leading and most preventable causes of maternal mortality and morbidity in Black women. There is an urgent need to understand the causes of these disparities, given the advanced nature of the U.S healthcare system and resources available.

The purpose of this research is to examine structural, clinical, and social determinants that contribute to disproportionate postpartum hemorrhage outcomes in Black women and to evaluate the effectiveness of current maternal health policies and interventions, such as toolkits that can be implemented by hospitals to reduce hemorrhage complications. Through a systematic review, this research will synthesize peer-reviewed research, maternal health reports, and various postpartum hemorrhage protocols to assess their impact on racial and ethnic disparities. 

Initial findings suggest that available hemorrhage toolkits improve overall maternal health outcomes, but do not fully address underlying inequities. This research seeks to address the various contributors that prevent the implementation of policies addressing all areas of disparities. By highlighting gaps in policy implementation, this research will aim to bring awareness to the need for further research, reform, and implementation of policies that will protect Black women and improve maternal health.