Cedar Rapids Today

Congresswoman Ashley Hinson (IA-02) recently advocated for her bipartisan Maternal and Child Health Stillbirth Prevention Act on the House Floor. "I rise today to urge my colleagues to support my bill, the Maternal and Child Health Stillbirth Prevention Act," she stated.

Hinson highlighted that despite the United States leading in medical innovation, development of new cures, and cutting-edge medical technology, it also suffers from high maternal mortality and stillbirth rates. Over 21,000 babies are stillborn every year in the U.S., with nearly one in four of these incidents being preventable.

She pointed out that over the past two decades, the U.S. has only managed to reduce its stillbirth rate by a negligible 0.4 percent. In a World Health Organization report comparing progress in improving stillbirth rates globally, the U.S. ranked 183 out of 195 countries.

"Our moms and babies deserve better," Hinson declared. She underscored the devastating impact of stillbirths on mothers and families who often have already prepared for their baby's arrival.

The congresswoman also noted that stillbirth disproportionately affects minority, rural, and underserved communities, including many areas in her home state of Iowa designated as maternal health care deserts.

Hinson stressed that ensuring expecting women have access to high-quality maternal care is crucial to preventing stillbirths and improving outcomes for both mother and baby. Her bipartisan Maternal and Child Health Stillbirth Prevention Act aims to dedicate funds towards stillbirth prevention and research.

"I have been honored to fight alongside [stillbirth prevention advocates] to bring this vital legislation across the finish line," Hinson said. She also acknowledged her co-lead on this legislation, Congresswoman Alma Adams, who has long fought for improved stillbirth prevention measures.

The bipartisan legislation has received endorsements from numerous women’s health, public health, and medical provider associations. It was passed unanimously in the Senate.

Hinson concluded her speech by urging her colleagues to support the Maternal and Child Health Stillbirth Prevention Act, aiming to bring more healthy babies into the world. "Thank you, and I yield back," she concluded.