Back in 2017, Beyoncé, the queen of music and more, went through a pretty tough time when she was pregnant with her twins, Rumi and Sir. What seemed like another glamorous celebrity pregnancy was far from it. Bey dealt with toxemia, also known as pre-eclampsia, a condition characterized by high blood pressure and signs of damage to other organ systems, most often the liver and kidneys. It poses significant risks to both the mother and unborn children. Sharing this part of her life was big — it showed that no matter how rich or famous you are, you’re not insulated from these complications.

Here’s the thing — Beyoncé’s experience shines a massive spotlight on a scary truth: Black women like her are way more likely to run into serious problems during pregnancy. It’s not just about individual health or lifestyle; it’s about a bigger, systemic problem that sees Black women getting the short end of the stick when it comes to maternity care. Bey opening up about her struggle put this issue center stage, making it impossible to ignore.

By telling her story, Beyoncé did something huge for Black women everywhere: she started a conversation about toxemia and the importance of keeping an eye out for warning signs during pregnancy. She used her own tough experience to teach others, encouraging more Black women to speak up and demand the care they need and deserve.

The problem goes deeper than just one condition like toxemia. It’s about a whole system that’s not doing enough for Black moms-to-be. Beyoncé’s ordeal is a snapshot of a larger crisis — one where racial bias and lack of access to proper, culturally competent, care mean Black women are facing way higher risks when they have a baby. It’s not just unfair; it’s something that needs to change, now.

What Beyoncé went through is more than just a personal health scare; it’s a call to action.