Gun violence is a public health crisis that impacts all of us. It poses a significant threat to the health and well-being of birthing people, infants, and their families. As an organization dedicated to improving perinatal health outcomes, we recognize the urgent need to address gun violence and its far-reaching impact on our communities in Wisconsin. 

The issue of gun violence is complex and interconnected with other social determinants of health, such as economic stability, access to healthcare, and community safety. These factors influence perinatal health outcomes, including maternal and infant mortality, mental health, and overall family well-being. 

We know that birthing, pregnant, and postpartum people are at higher risk of experiencing intimate partner violence, and this risk increases when a gun is present. More than half of intimate partner homicides involve a gun, and nearly 60% of mass shootings are connected to domestic violence. Homicide and suicide are the second and fourth leading causes of injury-related death for pregnant and postpartum people, with most homicides involving firearms (ACOG, Gun Violence and Safety 2023).

Gun violence also disproportionately impacts communities of color, low-income individuals, and other historically marginalized groups. Exposure to gun violence has a clear, harmful effect on mental health for those directly or indirectly affected (ACOG, Gun Violence and Safety 2023). 

We all have a role to play in addressing gun violence, especially healthcare and public health professionals. By working collaboratively across disciplines, we can: 

• Advocate for policies prioritizing safe environments for birthing people and their families. 

• Incorporate firearm safety and intimate partner violence education and resources into perinatal care. 

• Support research and data collection to understand the intersection of gun violence and perinatal health. 

• Partner with community organizations to address the root causes of violence. 

Together, as healthcare providers, advocates, and community members, we can foster safer environments for every birthing person, infant, and family in Wisconsin.