Faith-Based Pregnancy Center Education Bridges the Maternal Health Gap

ABSTRACT: Routine prenatal care in the United States has not been effective in reducing maternal mortality and preterm birth rates, nor addressing disparities among non-Hispanic Black women. Pregnant women from minority groups are more likely to be of low socioeconomic status and uninsured, and lacking resources to obtain preconception and early prenatal care to manage medical conditions. Faith-based pregnancy resource centers can help to fill the gap in maternal health among vulnerable populations. This article presents the development of an evidence-based prenatal education and social support program developed for those working in pregnancy resource centers to address disparities and improve outcomes in maternal mortality and preterm birth.