What is causing the high maternal mortality rate in Oregon?

According to the article, mental health conditions and substance use were the leading causes of pregnancy-related deaths in Oregon from 2018-2021, accounting for over 40% of maternal deaths.

How do the maternal mortality rates differ for Black and Indigenous people in Oregon?

The article states that the maternal mortality rate for Black and Indigenous people in Oregon is three times higher than that of white women, and they are more than twice as likely to die during or after pregnancy from substance use or mental health-related causes.

What innovative program in Oregon is trying to address the maternal mortality crisis?

The article highlights Project Nurture, a program that combines behavioral and perinatal health care to improve outcomes for pregnant individuals struggling with substance use disorders. However, the program faces challenges with funding and sustainability.

Home / Health / Maternal Mortality Crisis Linked to Mental Health and Substance Abuse in Oregon

Maternal Mortality Crisis Linked to Mental Health and Substance Abuse in Oregon

13 Nov

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Summary

Mental health conditions and substance use causing more maternal deaths than any other factor in Oregon
Racial disparities in maternal mortality rates, with Black and Indigenous people 3 times more likely to die
Innovative programs like Project Nurture showing promise, but struggle with funding and sustainability

Maternal Mortality Crisis Linked to Mental Health and Substance Abuse in Oregon

As of November 2025, Oregon's Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Review Committee has been grappling with a troubling trend: mental health conditions and substance use are now the leading causes of pregnancy-related deaths in the state. The committee's analysis of cases from 2018 through 2021 revealed that over 40% of maternal deaths were due to suicide or overdose, with many of the women facing homelessness, discrimination, and gaps in the healthcare system.

The racial disparities in these tragic outcomes are stark. Black and Indigenous people in Oregon are three times more likely to die during or after pregnancy due to mental health or substance use-related causes, compared to white women. This reflects a nationwide pattern of disproportionate harm to communities of color.

While Oregon has pioneered programs like Project Nurture that integrate behavioral and perinatal care, these initiatives remain fragile and underfunded. Providers and advocates warn that without greater investment and policy support, the state will struggle to save more lives and address the systemic inequities driving this maternal mortality crisis.

Disclaimer: This story has been auto-aggregated and auto-summarised by a computer program. This story has not been edited or created by the Feedzop team.