In a recent government meeting, advocates for incarcerated women highlighted severe deficiencies in maternal care within prison facilities. Testimonies from women who have experienced childbirth while incarcerated revealed alarming conditions, including a lack of basic hygiene products and inadequate medical support during labor.

One woman recounted her traumatic experience of giving birth in her underwear after prison staff refused to assist her, describing the ordeal as one of the worst moments of her life. She emphasized the fear and helplessness she felt, worrying about her life and the well-being of her child, as she received no medical monitoring or support during her pregnancy.

The meeting also addressed the broader challenges faced by incarcerated mothers, including difficulties in reunifying with their children post-release. Many women are forced to fight for custody or are given their children back without the necessary resources to care for them. Advocates from organizations like Women on the Rise Georgia are working to provide support services aimed at stabilizing these mothers through employment and community support.

The testimonies underscored a pressing need for systemic changes to recognize the humanity of incarcerated women and to ensure they receive the care and support they require during and after pregnancy. The meeting concluded with a call for greater awareness and action to improve conditions for these vulnerable individuals.