Kentucky

In Kentucky, a comprehensive network of perinatal providers and support services ensures that individuals receive quality care throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. Below is an overview of these services:

Perinatal Providers

Physicians

Obstetricians and Gynaecologists OB/GYNs across Kentucky offer comprehensive care for both routine and high-risk pregnancies. They are available in hospitals and clinics throughout the state.

Nurses and Midwives

• Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs) are licensed Advanced Practice Registered Nurses (APRNs) in Kentucky, certified by the American Midwifery Certification Board. In Kentucky, CNMs provide personalized, patient-centered care, often focusing on natural childbirth experiences with minimal interventions.

• Licensed Certified Professional Midwives (LCPMs): Since 2020, Kentucky licenses Certified Professional Midwives through the Kentucky Board of Nursing. LCPMs provide midwifery services, particularly in home birth settings.

Physician Assistants (PAs)

PAs collaborate with physicians to deliver prenatal care, routine checkups, and postpartum support, enhancing the accessibility of perinatal care in both urban and rural areas. Their role is integral to comprehensive maternal healthcare teams, ensuring continuous and coordinated care throughout the perinatal period.

Other Perinatal Professionals
Doulas: Doulas are trained non-medical professionals who provide continuous emotional and physical support during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. While specific statewide programs in Kentucky are evolving, many hospitals and community organizations are recognizing the value of doula services and integrating them into their maternity care teams. To find a doula around you, click here

Home Visitors: Kentucky's home visitation programs connect trained family-support professionals with expectant and new parents, offering services designed to improve pregnancy outcomes, parenting skills, and early childhood health and development. These services are provided at no cost to families and aim to ensure that parents have the resources and knowledge needed for successful child-rearing.

Behavioral Health Professionals: Specialists in maternal mental health address issues such as postpartum depression and anxiety. The Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services provides resources on perinatal mental health disorders, including access to the National Maternal Mental Health Hotline.

Lactation Consultants: Certified lactation consultants assist with breastfeeding challenges, offering education and support.

Rural and Tribal Healthcare Support
Rural Maternity Care

Pregnant women in rural Kentucky benefit from

1. Critical Access Hospitals (CAHs): Small hospitals in rural communities providing prenatal and delivery services, ensuring access to maternity care.

1. Rural Health Clinics (RHCs): Increase the use of non-physician providers such as nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and certified nurse-midwives in rural areas.

These providers and programs collectively contribute to comprehensive perinatal care across Kentucky, addressing the diverse needs of expectant mothers and their families. With these comprehensive options, families across Kentucky can find the care and support they need, from specialized medical providers to community-based services, ensuring a safe and healthy start for both parents and babies.