Why Postpartum Care Must Continue Beyond Six Weeks

The South Carolina Department of Public Health reports that our state ranks eighth nationally in maternal mortality, with nearly 90% of pregnancy-related deaths considered preventable. Mental-health and substance-use conditions are among the leading causes, underscoring that postpartum care cannot end at the traditional six-week visit. From a psychologist’s perspective, mothers need continued support throughout the first year after delivery including careful attention to emotional and behavioral changes and timely intervention. This is especially critical for Black mothers in South Carolina, whose maternal mortality rate is nearly twice that of White mothers.

Cindy Carter, Ph.D.

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