Maryland

In Maryland, a diverse range of perinatal healthcare providers and support services are available to assist expectant and new parents. They include:

Perinatal Providers

Physicians
Obstetricians (OB-GYNs) in Maryland provide 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) and licensed direct-entry midwives focus on patient-centered care, often emphasizing natural childbirth experiences with fewer medical interventions.

Physician Assistants (PAs)
PAs collaborate with doctors to provide prenatal care, routine checkups, and postpartum support in urban and rural areas. Many community health clinics and hospitals employ PAs to enhance accessibility for pregnant women.

Other Perinatal Professionals

Doulas
Doulas offer non-medical emotional and physical support during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. To find a doula around you, click here

Home Visitors
Home visiting programs support maternal health, breastfeeding, and infant care. Programs such as Maryland Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting Program (MIECHV) support evidence-based home visiting services for expectant and new parents, guiding parents on infant care, breastfeeding, and maternal health, especially in underserved areas.

Behavioral Health Professionals
Mental health support is crucial for managing postpartum depression, anxiety, and stress. Various healthcare facilities in Maryland offer counseling and support groups tailored to maternal mental health.

Lactation Consultants
Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) assist mothers with breastfeeding challenges and provide education and support. The Maryland WIC Program also provides breastfeeding support services to eligible families.

Rural and Tribal Healthcare Support
Maryland supports maternal and infant health through various community-based programs. The Maryland Department of Health collaborates with healthcare providers to enhance care quality.
Rural Maternity Care
Pregnant women in rural Maryland benefit from initiatives aimed at improving access to prenatal care:

• Maryland State Office of Rural Health: Works to enhance healthcare quality and access in rural communities.
• Rural Maternity and Obstetrics Management Strategies (RMOMS) Program: Funded to increase access to maternal and obstetrics care in rural areas.

With these comprehensive options, families across Maryland 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.