In this fourth episode of Black Maternity Natters, Ann Remmers sits down with Dr Karen Joash, an award-winning Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Imperial College London. In a deeply moving conversation, Karen reflects on the "miracle of birth" and her lifelong commitment to supporting women through their most vulnerable and joyous moments.

Karen shares her own journey of resilience, from applying to medical school three times to navigating a healthcare system where she rarely saw herself represented. This personal history fuels her urgent work in health equity, particularly her exploration of "weathering" - the process where the chronic stress of racism leads to accelerated metabolic aging and poorer outcomes for Black and Brown mothers.

The discussion dives into how we can move beyond the "blame" often found in research data to address systemic barriers. Karen talks about how her team at Imperial successfully achieved equitable hemorrhage rates in just three months by challenging clinical biases, such as learning to recognise physical signs of blood loss that are often missed on darker skin.

Beyond the clinic, the episode explores the power of diversity of thought as a "gift" that fosters safer, more innovative healthcare systems. Karen also offers a preview of her upcoming project, "The Black Women’s Health Bible," a book designed to provide actionable solutions for the gender and racial health gap.

Join us for an inspiring conversation that challenges all of us to consider how embracing diversity can lead to greater peace, impact, and joy in our own lives.

Programme notes

Black Maternity Matters

Dr Karen Joash

NHS Race & Health Observatory

Tommy's - the pregnancy and baby charity

Rebel Ideas: The Power of Diverse Thinking by Matthew Syed

Connect with Dr Karen Joash on socials: Instagram and LinkedIn

Connect with Black Maternity Matters on socials: Instagram and LinkedIn

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