Dr. Patricia Ferguson shares her insight as to why women's health concerns are historically dismissed, and what we can collectively do to reduce gender bias.

‘You Don’t Have to Suffer Silently:’ Examining Women’s Health Disparities and the Importance of Self-Advocacy  

Even when on a seemingly level socioeconomic playing field, Black women are likelier to require a C-section than white women. Barriers to care for pregnant Black women and other women of color can be attributed to multiple factors.

How Black Maternal Health Disparities Coincide with C-section Birth Complications

The good news is for most pregnant women is gestational diabetes is transient and can be safely managed under the care of a provider. Learn more here.

Is Gestational Diabetes Preventable?

More women in the U.S. are experiencing severe and even fatal complications after delivering a child, according to a new Blue Cross Blue Shield Health of America report.

Rates of Severe Complications After Pregnancy Rising Among Women of All Backgrounds

Women in predominantly Black communities have a 63% higher rate of severe maternal morbidity – unexpected outcomes from labor and delivery that impact a woman’s health, including death – than women in predominantly white communities....

Disparities in Maternal Health Outcomes  

A new report finds that more women are entering pregnancy with pre-existing health conditions, increasing the risk for both pregnancy and childbirth complications....

Report: Chronic Conditions Negatively Affecting Pregnancy Outcomes

Breast cancer is the most common cancer found in women. In 2019, more than 58,000 cases have been diagnosed in Michigan alone. That’s why each October, known as Breast Cancer Awareness Month, highlights education and support services targeting those affected by the disease....

What to Expect at Your First Mammogram

More than 80% of mothers breastfeed; however, by 12 months, that number drops to about 30 percent. Although breastmilk is known for its nutrients and disease-fighting antibodies, more and more women are choosing not to nurse....

Seven Common Breastfeeding Problems and Solutions

Did you know that women in Detroit die of pregnancy-related causes at three times the national rate? Detroit has the highest maternal death rate of any major U. S. city — higher than many developing countries, including Libya, Uruguay and Vietnam....

Pregnant stomach with a bow wrapped around

Saving Lives Through Better Maternal Health

Dr. Patricia Ferguson, MD, is medical director at Senior Health Services, Emergent Holdings. Emergent Holdings is a separate entity contracted by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan to perform administrative services for Blue Cross’ Medicare Advantage program. She is a fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and is a member of the National Medical Association. She is a founder of the 501(c)3 nonprofit organization Each One Teach One.

Dr. Patricia Ferguson

Blues Perspectives

MI Blues Perspectives is sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, a nonprofit, independent licensee of the Blue Cross Blue Shield Association

Dr. Patricia Ferguson

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