It seems like every week a new study, report, or national ranking comes out that shines a light on some of the worst parts of our great state.  This has got to be one of the most depressing, and certainly one of the most important issues to resolve.  A new study conducted by USA Today reveals that the United States has the highest rate of maternal deaths during childbirth among developed nations - and Louisiana has the highest rate in the country!

In total, around 700 mothers die each year during childbirth in this country - pushing the U.S. well above other developed nations.  The average maternal mortality rate in the U.S. is 26.4 deaths per 100,000 births - compare that to the rates in Canada, Japan, France, and the U.K. which all have rates under 10 per 100,000.  In Louisiana, the rate is more than double the national average at 58.1 per 100,000.

While these other nations maternal mortality rates have been steadily dropping since 1990 (the year the study begins) the rates in the U.S. have been rising rapidly.

Hospitals and health care providers are working to find solutions to this horrible reality, but the best way to stay safe is to stay informed.  Find out what information the CDC recommends every parent know here.

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