Gun homicide rates higher in pregnant women than nonpregnant

American women are more likely to be murdered during pregnancy or soon after childbirth than from the three leading obstetric causes of maternal death: hypertensive disorders, hemorrhage, and sepsis. A recent study highlights a disturbing trend: firearm homicide is increasingly a threat to pregnant individuals, and rates are linked to the prevalence of gun ownership.

A Rising Crisis

Researchers publishing in JAMA Network Open found that from 2018 to 2021, pregnant women experienced a 37% higher firearm homicide rate compared to nonpregnant women. This data underscores that “homicide remains the leading cause of maternal mortality in the U.S.” according to the study’s authors.

What the Study Found

The study analyzed data from the CDC’s National Violent Death Reporting System, encompassing 7,063 women of childbearing age (15-49 years) who were shot and killed in 37 states between January 1, 2018, and December 31, 2021. The women were categorized as pregnant—including within the last 12 months—or nonpregnant.

Did You Know? Most of the victims included in the study were Black women, accounting for 46.4% of the cases.

The study also revealed significant geographic disparities. While some states reported zero homicides involving pregnant women during the study period, others experienced over 100 deaths per 1 million live births. Southern states, including Louisiana, North and South Carolina, West Virginia, and Georgia, had the highest rates.

Why is This Happening?

Researchers suggest a connection between gun policy and firearm homicide rates. States with stricter gun laws generally experience fewer overall firearm deaths. Policies aimed at reducing access to firearms, such as safe storage laws and prohibitions for individuals with domestic violence convictions, “may play an essential role in the protection of pregnant women.”

Expert Insight: The findings emphasize the intersection of public health crises – gun violence and maternal mortality – and suggest that addressing both simultaneously is crucial for protecting pregnant individuals.

Access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare may also play a role. Research indicates higher rates of intimate partner-related female homicide, including peripartum homicide, in states with more restrictive abortion laws.

Frequently Asked Questions

What did the study examine?

The study examined firearm homicide rates among pregnant and nonpregnant women of childbearing age (15-49 years) in 37 states between 2018 and 2021, using data from the CDC’s National Violent Death Reporting System.

What proportion of maternal deaths are caused by homicide?

Researchers found that homicide is the leading cause of maternal mortality in the U.S., with more than three-quarters of these deaths caused by firearms.

What factors might contribute to these disparities?

The observed geographic disparities in homicide rates among pregnant women likely reflect differences in state-level firearm-related legislation and policies regarding access to comprehensive reproductive health care.

As policymakers and healthcare professionals grapple with these findings, a proactive approach integrating firearm safety into intimate partner violence screening during prenatal, emergency, and postpartum care could be a possible next step.