The Public Health Prenatal program is community-based initiatives designed to improve perinatal outcomes. This includes linkage to local health departments for care or access to contracted services, assistance with presumptive eligibility/enrollment for Medicaid Services, health promotion for well woman exams or check-ups, health education, and screenings.
Upon identification of concerns or needs, referrals are made by the local health department for prenatal care, wrap-around-services such as nutrition support through the Women, Infant, and Children (WIC) program, the home visitation program of Health Access Nurturing Development Services (HANDS), substance use treatment and screening, and tobacco cessation. Contact your local health department for more information.
Pregnant...Now What?
- Once you find out you are pregnant, make an appointment with an obstetrician or certified nurse-midwife as soon as possible
- If you do not have insurance or payment coverage, ask your provider or contact the local health department to apply for presumptive eligibility (PE). If you are eligible, you can receive prenatal services at not cost up to 90 days. Do not go to the local DCBS office to apply for PE. Apply for PE before applying for Medicaid. You should apply for Medicaid after your start date of PE and before the expiration date.
Importance of Prenatal Care
Research has shown that women who start prenatal care early in their pregnancy tend to have fewer medical problems and deliver healthier babies. It is very important for all pregnant women to initiate their prenatal care as soon as they know they are pregnant and continue with appropriate care through delivery and postpartum follow-up visit.
Reminder
Each trimester comes with its own set of challenges, but also exciting milestones as your baby grows and develops. Remember, every pregnancy is unique, so while these are common experiences, always listen to your body and consult your healthcare provider if you have concerns.
- First Trimester (Weeks 1-12):
- The first trimester marks the beginning of your pregnancy and is often full of early changes. You might experience symptoms like fatigue, nausea, or morning sickness, which are common during this stage due to hormonal changes. Your baby’s major organs begin to form, and by the end of the first trimester, they’ll have developed most of their essential features.
- Second Trimester (Weeks 13-26):
- Many early symptoms, like nausea, tend to subside, and energy levels may increase. As your baby grows, you'll begin to notice physical changes in your body, such as a growing belly and possible weight gain. This is also when you feel baby’s first movements, a milestone that brings excitement and reassurance.
- Third Trimester (Weeks 27-40):
- As you approach the final stretch, the third trimester brings its own set of challenges and excitement. Your baby will continue to grow rapidly, and you may experience increased discomfort as your body prepares for labor. This is the time to focus on getting ready for childbirth and gathering everything you need for your baby's arrival.
More information on pregnancy can be found at: