Missouri’s Shocking – and Preventable - Maternal Health Crisis: Data, Barriers & What Works

Mental health and substance use disorders are behind a shocking share of pregnancy-related deaths across Missouri – indeed, nationwide - and many of those deaths were preventable. Joining us to discuss this are Charisse Montgomery, Family Services Coordinator with Chestnut Health Systems, and Lindsey VonDras, Perinatal Care Coordination Manager for the Missouri Hospital Association. Charisse and Lindsey break down what the data really says about pregnancy, postpartum risk, foster care disruption, and why so many families never get connected to the support they need.You’ll discover why nearly 40% of pregnancy-related deaths happen after delivery, how stigma and access barriers keep people from asking for help, and why Missouri’s maternity care deserts make the problem even harder to solve. We also get into what actually works: family-centered care, individualized recovery pathways, peer support, doulas, and coordinated wraparound services that keep mom, baby, and family in the picture. Charisse shares how Chestnut Health Systems supports parents through pregnancy and postpartum, and Lindsey explains Project STORK, a new Missouri framework promoting real connection, recovery support, and ongoing care.If you care about maternal health, behavioral health, child welfare, or better systems for families in crisis, this conversation is essential listening.  This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thecatalyst2.substack.com