The Senate Select Committee on Women and Children in Louisiana convened on January 15, 2025, to address alarming findings from the latest Louisiana PAMMER report, which highlights maternal mortality issues in the state. The report revealed 82 confirmed pregnancy-associated deaths, with 15 classified as pregnancy-related. The leading causes of these deaths included cardiomyopathy, cardiovascular conditions, infections, and accidental overdoses.

A staggering 93% of pregnancy-related deaths and 71% of pregnancy-associated deaths occurred within a year after pregnancy, with a significant portion deemed potentially preventable. Notably, 13 out of the 15 pregnancy-related deaths involved Black women, underscoring a critical need for improved postpartum support policies.

The committee emphasized the importance of addressing maternal health disparities, particularly through enhanced screenings for hypertensive disorders, as highlighted by Senator Barrow's previous legislative efforts. The current maternal mortality rate stands at 37.3 deaths per 100,000 births, with a concerning cesarean section rate of 28% and 16.9% of women lacking adequate prenatal care.

Access to maternity care remains a pressing issue, with approximately 26% of Louisiana classified as maternity care deserts, where women lack access to obstetrical care or delivery hospitals. The March of Dimes' annual report continues to issue Louisiana an "F" for its high preterm birth rates, further complicating the state's maternal health landscape.

As the committee prepares to hear from speakers sharing personal experiences related to these tragedies, the discussions signal a critical moment for Louisiana to confront its maternal health crisis and implement necessary reforms.