Cultural Competence: Maternal Health and Islam

December 2024 Release

In Islam, mothers are accorded greater respect and honor than any other family members, recognizing the immense sacrifices they make in bearing and nurturing children. In the blessed words of the Prophet Muhammad (SAW), paradise lies beneath the feet of our mothers. Yet, despite this emphasis, the maternal health landscape in the United States reveals disparities and challenges that must be addressed, especially for marginalized communities.

According to a study completed in 2022 by the Institute for Social Policy and Understanding (ISPU), 27% of Muslims reported facing religious discrimination in a healthcare setting, compared to only 8% for the general public. This statistic underscores the systemic barriers that many Muslim mothers face when seeking essential healthcare services. These challenges range from language barriers and cultural insensitivity to outright bias, all of which undermine the quality of care and contribute to adverse health outcomes.

Many factors compound the difficulties faced by Muslim mothers. The broader maternal health crisis in the United States disproportionately affects women of color, with Black and Indigenous women experiencing significantly higher maternal mortality rates than their white counterparts. For Muslim women, these challenges are often exacerbated by additional layers of religious and cultural discrimination. For example, modesty preferences, dietary restrictions, and religious practices may be misunderstood or disregarded by healthcare providers, ultimately resulting in discomfort and mistrust.

Considering the importance of mothers, addressing these disparities is not just a healthcare imperative but also a moral responsibility. We must focus on improving cultural competency among healthcare providers, advocate for policies that ensure equitable access to maternal health services, and create safe spaces where Muslim mothers can receive support tailored to their unique needs.

The Asiyah Women’s Center in New York City is an example of such an initiative. This emergency center addresses the gap in appropriate residential services for Arab, Middle Eastern, Muslim, South Asian (AMEMSA), and Black, Indigenous, People of Color (BIPOC) populations. It provides services such as emergency housing, health services, and pre-/postpartum support for mothers while keeping cultural sensitivity at the forefront of their work. The Asiyah Women’s Center empowers women to navigate the complexities of motherhood while overcoming systemic barriers.

Beyond individual centers, the broader community has a role to play. Muslim student associations, mosques, and community organizations can collaborate to raise awareness about maternal health disparities and advocate for broader changes. As future leaders, we have the responsibility to uplift the voices of our mothers and ensure they receive the care and respect they deserve. Let us remember the words of the Prophet (SAW) and strive to create a society where every mother, regardless of her background, can thrive in her vital role. Addressing maternal health disparities is not just a healthcare issue; it is a reflection of our faith.