INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Pregnant, contemplating or unsure, it is important to know when to see your doctor and how to best prepare for a safer and healthier pregnancy, delivery and post-partum period.

More than 2 million women of childbearing age live in a maternity care desert without access to a birthing facility or maternity care provider. 

Almost a quarter of Indiana’s counties are defined as a maternity care desert and 14 Indiana OB units have closed in the last 5 years.

This is concerning as Indiana ranks third highest in the nation for maternal mortality and 7th highest for infant mortality. 

Having a chronic health condition increases the risk of preterm birth by 51%. In Indiana, almost 50% of women have at least one chronic health condition compared to the national average, which is less than 40%. 

What do you recommend to women of childbearing age?

• Establish care with a trusted provider.
• Ask about family planning services.
• Know your numbers (BMI, blood pressure, A1C or 3 month blood sugar average and cholesterol).
• Quit smoking and alcohol.
• Optimize your nutrition.
• Exercise routinely.
• Take a prenatal vitamin.
• Visit your local birthing centers.
• Consider spacing out your pregnancies by at least 18 months.
• Identify your support system and advocates.

After a positive pregnancy test, when should your see your OB provider?

• Once you find out you are pregnant, schedule a visit. Your first visit should be between 6-8 weeks and there may be a wait for you to get in given the lack of available providers. 
• Keep up with your prenatal visit schedule and testing.
• Seek emergent evaluation for severe abdominal pain, heavy vaginal bleeding, difficulty breathing, chest pain, severe headache, severe nausea or vomiting, fever, decreased or no fetal movement. 
• See your OB provider for foul smelling vaginal discharge as a vaginal or cervical infection can increase your risk for preterm birth.
• Discuss changes in mood with your provider and consider therapy and medication if needed. 

Resources

Indiana MCH MOMS Helpline connects pregnant and postpartum people with prenatal and child health care services.

Liv pregnancy mobile app provides support and resources from prenatal care through a baby’s first birthday, including doctors, hospitals, food banks, WIC clinics, drug treatment centers, and safe sleep education/crib distribution sites.

About The Author

See author's posts