BOC calls for stronger monitoring and alternatives to incarceration

For that reason, addressing maternal mental health care in the city's jails must also include strengthening the board's monitoring and research capacities.

Multiple studies performed in jail and prison settings across our country

have shown that conditions of confinement for people receiving maternal care are often inconsistent and insufficient, failing to meet the health care needs of this population.

These same studies have highlighted how children born in custody have a propensity for adverse outcomes of preterm birth, low birth weight, and stillbirth.

There are also numerous risk factors for morbidity and mortality during pregnancy and postpartum, such as a high prevalence of mental health conditions, chronic illness, substance use disorders, and limited access to health care.

Accordingly, there must also be a focus on exploring alternatives to incarceration that would allow expectant mothers to receive care in their communities.

Pregnancy and the postpartum period require constant access to medical supervision, mental health support, and opportunities to establish and maintain a bond between a mother and their child.

Alternatives to incarceration can help reduce disruptions to care and maintain connections to their families and community-based health care providers.

The boards and its minimum standards of care play a key role in safeguarding access

and correspondence with loved ones, and creating opportunities to maintain family relationships and system support.

As we continue to address the services available within correctional facilities, reducing the need for expecting a new parent to enter or remain in these settings could go a long way to preventing some of the adverse outcomes we are seeing in prisons and jails across the country.