Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, expectant and new parents have access to a diverse range of perinatal healthcare providers and support services to assist families throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and the postpartum period. These resources ensure that families across the state have access to personalized care that meets diverse needs.

Perinatal Providers

Physicians

Obstetricians (OB-GYNs) and perinatologist in Massachusetts manage both routine and high-risk pregnancies, providing comprehensive obstetric care, including prenatal visits, labor and delivery, and postpartum support. They are available in hospitals and clinics throughout the state.

Nurses and Midwives

Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs) and licensed midwives focus on patient-centered care with fewer medical interventions, often emphasizing natural childbirth experiences. Massachusetts has enacted legislation to license Certified Midwives, aiming to expand access to midwifery care, especially in underserved areas. The new maternal health law establishes a state midwifery license and board to regulate and credential midwives and lactation consultants, integrating midwifery into the state's healthcare system.

Physician Assistants (PAs)

PAs collaborate with doctors to provide prenatal care, routine checkups, and postpartum support in urban and rural areas, enhancing accessibility to perinatal services throughout Massachusetts. Many community health clinics and hospitals employ PAs to improve accessibility for pregnant women.

Other Perinatal Professionals

Doulas: Doulas offer non-medical, emotional, and physical support during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health's Doula Initiative aims to improve the health of pregnant and postpartum people by making doulas available to those who want them, recognizing that Black, Indigenous, and People of Color (BIPOC) experience disproportionately poor health and birth outcomes. Learn more

Home Visitors

Home visiting programs support maternal health, breastfeeding, and infant care, especially in underserved areas. The Massachusetts Home Visiting Initiative (MHVI) provides evidence-based home visiting services to families with young children. Learn more

Behavioral Health Professionals
Mental health support is crucial for postpartum depression, anxiety, and stress management. Specialists provide support for maternal mental health issues like postpartum depression and anxiety. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health offers resources and information for parents and caregivers dealing with perinatal mood and anxiety disorders.

Lactation Consultants

Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLCs) help mothers navigate breastfeeding challenges and provide education and support. Massachusetts Lactation Consultant Association (MLCA) provides a directory of IBCLCs offering home and office visits.

Rural and Tribal Healthcare Support
Massachusetts supports maternal and infant health through various community-based programs. Pregnant women in rural Massachusetts benefit from community health centers, which provide comprehensive prenatal and delivery services in underserved areas.

These resources reflect Massachusetts' commitment to providing comprehensive and accessible perinatal care for all families.