A new study reveals that North Carolina ranks tenth in the nation in maternal infection rates, placing mothers at the highest risk for adverse birth outcomes nationwide.
The research conducted by Birth Injury Lawyers Group analyzed maternal infection data from March of Dimes’ PeriStats (2018–2022). The research reviewed reported cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and congenital syphilis, compiling total infection rates per state and averaging them to determine the combined infection rate per 100,000 women.
This allowed researchers to compare states and identify where mothers face the highest risk of infection-related complications during pregnancy – complications that can lead to severe health issues for both mothers and newborns.
North Carolina ranks tenth with 273 infections per 100,000 women, 28% higher than the national average of 213. The Tar Heel State reported high chlamydia rates (823 cases per 100,000) and moderate gonorrhea levels (233), alongside syphilis rates (5) and a concerning congenital syphilis rate (30).
Looking at the study, a spokesperson from Birth Injury Lawyers Group commented:
“These findings reveal deeply concerning infection burdens in states like North Carolina – where maternal health risks far exceed national levels. Elevated STI and congenital syphilis rates reflect systemic gaps in access to prenatal care, preventive screenings, and sexual health resources.
“When states record such high infection-related risks for pregnant women, it underscores the urgent need for stronger public health infrastructure, early intervention programs, and improved community-level support. These data make it clear that routine testing, maternal education, and expanded prenatal care must be prioritized to prevent severe or lifelong consequences for mothers and newborns.”
| Top 10 U.S. States With the Highest Infection-Related Birth Risks | ||
| U.S. State | Average Infection Rate per 100,000 Women 2018-2022 | Rank |
| Mississippi | 389 | 1 |
| Louisiana | 360 | 2 |
| Alaska | 358 | 3 |
| South Carolina | 296 | 4 |
| South Dakota | 295 | 5 |
| Arkansas | 292 | 6 |
| Oklahoma | 281 | 7 |
| New Mexico | 278 | 8 |
| Alabama | 275 | 9 |
| North Carolina | 273 | 10 |
The study was conducted by Birth Injury Lawyers Group, a nationwide network of lawyers dedicated to advocating for families affected by medical negligence and protecting children’s rights.
Methodology
The study analyzed 2018–2022 maternal infection data from March of Dimes PeriStats, reviewing reported cases of chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, and congenital syphilis among women across all 50 states. For each state, total infection rates were compiled and standardized by calculating the average number of infections per 100,000 women. These per-capita metrics were then used to identify and compare states with the highest levels of infection-related maternal risk and the greatest likelihood of adverse birth outcomes.
Data Sources
- Data → https://www.marchofdimes.org/peristats/data?top=10&lev=1&stop=148®=99&sreg=01&obj=8&slev=4
- Research Dataset → https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1MDddf7H0VwOPnJDszC2w5XXxSj9iCQN-k2Gi0_A2MAY/edit?gid=0#gid=0
