Generate Health is excited to announce the launch of the 2BHeard Initiative, a localized awareness campaign that builds on the “CDC Foundation’s Hear Her Campaign” to ensure that every pregnant person and their support networks in the St. Louis region, as well as providers around Missouri know and understand the urgent maternal warning signs, take the time, expend the energy, and make the effort to Hear Her.
Why 2BHeard?
In the U.S., maternal mortality is a growing concern. Too many people die from pregnancy-related complications, and the heartbreaking reality is that many of these deaths are preventable. The CDC Foundation launched the “Hear Her Campaign” to educate people about the critical signs that signal potential danger during pregnancy and the postpartum period.
The 2BHeard Initiative is our effort to amplify that message here in St. Louis. The latest MO Pregnancy-Associated Mortality Review (PAMR) reports that annually, 70 pregnant people die within one year of giving birth, and 84% of those deaths are preventable. This lifesaving effort is just the beginning of the multi systems-level change we aim to enact.
Human to human, we have 2BHeard on this issue. We want to dream about what it would be like 2BHeard. We want to provide others with an opportunity 2BHeard, and most importantly, we want to be vigilant enough to know what we are hearing. 2BHeard is more than just an awareness campaign—it’s a movement designed to engage and inform our entire community. Everyone, from healthcare providers to friends and family members, plays a role in supporting maternal health.
What Sets 2BHeard Apart?
St. Louis is known for its powerful sense of community, vibrant culture, and its ability to come together for important causes. The 2BHeard Initiative is tapping into what our city does best—starting conversations, participating in local events, and leveraging community-driven action to ensure that the maternal health crisis is addressed in real and impactful ways.
2BHeard Approach
- Community Voice: Our 2BHeard Initiative Advisory Council consists of 5 members from our Community Leaders Cabinet and Community Fellows who will inform the campaign’s direction.
- Local Conversations: We will be hosting talks, panels, and discussions with local healthcare providers, community leaders, and families to raise awareness of maternal health warning signs. (Be on the lookout for Boutiques and Barbershops)
- Events and Activities: From health fairs to neighborhood block parties, we will be present at community events and hosting others across St. Louis to share life-saving information in spaces where people are already gathering.
- Support Networks: We are working to educate not only pregnant people but also their loved ones—partners, parents, friends—about how to recognize signs of distress and advocate for proper care.
- Providers: We will train providers to train others on knowing the signs and will host opportunities for providers and patients to have meaningful dialogue. By partnering with the Integrated Health Network (IHN) we gain access to the statewide AIM-CCI Network. IHN’s AIM CCI initiative created the train the trainer component geared toward increasing awareness exponentially while educating the region and encouraging respectful care that saves lives.
The Urgent Maternal Warning Signs
Our mission is centered around spreading the word about specific and urgent maternal warning signs that can indicate a serious problem. These include, but are not limited to:
- Severe headaches or vision changes
- Extreme swelling in the hands, face, or legs
- Shortness of breath
- Heavy bleeding or discharge
- Severe pain in the abdomen or chest
- Dizziness or feeling faint
Recognizing these symptoms can make the difference between life and death. That’s why it is essential to ensure that everyone—from pregnant individuals to their entire support network—has this critical knowledge.
Get Involved with 2BHeard
We need the help of our community to make 2BHeard a success. Whether you’re an expecting parent, a healthcare provider, or just someone who wants to contribute to this worthy cause, there are many ways to get involved:
- Attend our events: Check our calendar for upcoming discussions, health fairs, and community outreach activities.
- Spread the word: Follow us on social media and share our posts to raise awareness about urgent maternal warning signs.
- Volunteer: Help us distribute materials and support our efforts at local events.
Working Together to Save Lives
Maternal health is everyone’s responsibility. With the 2BHeard Initiative, we’re committed to leveraging the power of our local community to make sure every pregnant person in St. Louis has the information and support they need. Together, we can ensure that more voices are heard, and more lives are saved.
Stay tuned for updates on our events and how you can get involved in 2BHeard. Let’s work together to make St. Louis a city where every pregnancy is supported, and every mother’s voice is heard.
We’re working towards a future where Black families in St. Louis thrive before, during, and beyond pregnancy.
