Dr. Morgan Richardson Cayama, public health researcher, doula, and member of Team EBB, joins Dr. Rebecca Dekker to explore the critical issue of mistreatment in maternity care. Drawing from her doctoral research—including interviews with Black women in Florida and data from the Giving Voice to Mothers study—Dr. Morgan shares what respectful maternity care really looks like, and how the lack of it can negatively impact birth outcomes and future healthcare decisions. She also opens up about her own preterm hospital birth, offering insight into how even the most informed parents can feel disempowered by coercive hospital systems. Together, they break down the systemic roots of obstetric violence and offer community-driven recommendations for change.   Content Note: Discussion of obstetric mistreatment, medical trauma, discrimination in maternity care, and stillbirth.

How a Global Health Class Sparked a Career in Public Health

From Dissertation to Delivery: Dr. Morgan’s Birth Story

Reflecting on the Power of Language and Provider Ultimatums

What Mistreatment in Maternity Care Looks Like in the U.S.

Florida’s Unique Birth Landscape

Researching the Lived Experiences of Black Birthing Women

What Respectful Care Really Means to Patients

Participant Recommendations for Healthcare Providers and Parents

How a Single Birth Interaction Can Shape Lifelong Views on Healthcare