Missouri

Missouri offers a comprehensive network of healthcare professionals 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 in Missouri

Physicians

Obstetricians and gynecologists (OB-GYNs) in Missouri manage both routine and high-risk pregnancies.

Nurses and Midwives

Certified Nurse-Midwives (CNMs) and Licensed Midwives provide patient-centered care, often emphasizing natural childbirth experiences with minimal interventions. The Missouri Midwives Association provides a directory of credentialed midwives across the state.

Physician Assistants (PAs)

Physician Assistants collaborate with doctors to provide prenatal care, routine checkups, and postpartum support, enhancing accessibility in both urban and rural areas. They play a vital role in extending healthcare services, especially in underserved communities.

Other Perinatal Professionals

Doulas

Doulas offer non-medical, emotional, and physical support during pregnancy, labor, and postpartum. As of October 1, 2024, doula services are available to all MO HealthNet (Medicaid) enrolled pregnant women as preventive services when recommended by a physician or other licensed practitioner. Learn more

Home Visitors

Programs such as Healthy Families America offer voluntary, high-quality early childhood visits in the home and access to other resources free of charge to Missouri residents. These services support families to provide the opportunity for children to grow up healthy, safe, ready to learn, and for their families to have the ability to be active participants in this journey. Learn more

Behavioral Health Professionals
Specialists provide support for maternal mental health issues like postpartum depression and anxiety. The Missouri Chapter of Postpartum Support International connects families with trained professionals and resources statewide. Additionally, the Missouri Department of Health & Senior Services offers a list of providers offering services for perinatal depression.

Lactation Consultants

Certified lactation consultants assist with breastfeeding challenges and provide education and support.

Rural and Underserved Healthcare Support
Missouri supports maternal and infant health through various community-based programs. The Rural Maternity and Obstetrics Management Strategies (RMOMS) program strives to improve access to risk-appropriate maternal and obstetric care in rural Southeast Missouri.

With these comprehensive options, families across Missouri 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.