Episode 99: Health Inequalities in Pregnancy and Postpartum Care

In this episode of the RCP Medicine Podcast , we explore the critical issue of health inequalities during pregnancy and the postpartum period. Joining us is Dr Maria Mouyis , Consultant Physician & Rheumatologist with Specialist Interest in Obstetric Medicine, alongside Dr Vasiliki Thanopoulou , RCP clinical education fellow, Rheumatology/GIM Specialist Registrar. Together, they unpack why pregnancy itself can be a risk factor for health inequality, the findings from the MBRRACE report, and the systemic, cultural, and clinical challenges that impact maternal and neonatal outcomes. From disparities in maternal mortality among ethnic minority groups to the role of unconscious bias and digital exclusion, this conversation highlights practical steps clinicians can take to improve equity in care. We also discuss innovative initiatives such as maternal medicine networks, preconception clinics, and community engagement projects that aim to empower women and reduce adverse outcomes. Whether you’re a clinician, policymaker, or advocate, this episode offers actionable insights and resources to help drive change. Resources: UK Obstetric Surveillance System (UKOSS) | UKOSS | NPEU Reports | MBRRACE-UK | NPEU Special interest groups | British Society for Rheumatology Eastern Obstetric Medicine Group: EOMG Meetings | MacDonald Obstetric Medicine Society Multidisciplinary Approaches to Maternal Health - elearning for healthcare Racism in pain management causes needless suffering | The BMJ FIVEXMORE Explore our CPD portfolio by your career stage RCP | Education and professional development RCP Links Education RCP Social Media Instagram LinkedIn Facebook Bluesky Music Episode 50 onward - Bensound.com Episodes 1 - 49 'Impressive Deals' - Nicolai Heidlas Any adverts within this podcast may use computer generated voices

You can listen to Episode 99: Health Inequalities in Pregnancy and Postpartum Care online on Radio and Podcast. Open the player on this page to stream the available audio.

Episode 99: Health Inequalities in Pregnancy and Postpartum Care is an episode from RCP Medicine Podcast by Royal College of Physicians.

This episode is 42:50 long.

This episode was published on Jan 13, 2026.

Yes. Use the heart button on the episode page to add it to your favorite episodes list.

Yes. This page shows related episodes from RCP Medicine Podcast when more episodes are available from the podcast feed.