Discover how Missouri is prioritizing the health of moms and babies through innovative healthcare strategies for physical and mental well-being.
Whether you are pregnant, thinking of becoming pregnant, or just gave birth – it is important to get the healthcare and support you need.
About Our Partners
Healthy Moms, Healthy Babies is a collaboration between several Missouri state agencies: the Department of Social Services, MO HealthNet Division, the Department of Health & Senior Services, the Department of Mental Health, and the Department of Elementary & Secondary Education. These state agencies are charged with the physical and mental well-being of Missouri’s citizens and offer a variety of resources, benefits, and services to provide optimal healthcare.
Our Mission
The mission of Healthy Moms, Healthy Babies is to end preventable maternal and infant health risks by connecting women to quality healthcare and supportive resources that will provide healthy, successful pregnancy and post-partum experiences for both mom and baby.
What The Data Shows
According to the Pregnancy-Associated Mortality Review, every year an average of 70 women die while pregnant or within one year of pregnancy in Missouri. 84% of these pregnancy-related deaths were determined to be preventable. The Healthy Moms, Healthy Babies efforts are designed to address not only maternal health concerns, but also pre-term pregnancies, and low birth weight and very low birth weight babies.
Before Pregnancy
It can be exciting and scary if you are thinking about becoming pregnant. Here are some important steps you can take now to help you have a healthy pregnancy and reduce health risks.
Healthcare Coverage & Benefits
If you are thinking of becoming pregnant it is important to get the healthcare coverage you need. Apply for coverage or if you already have coverage, make sure to let your insurance provider know as soon as possible.
MO HealthNet for Pregnant Women provides women with benefits and resources including diapers, breast pumps, transportation to medical appointments, and much more! Coverage is effective during your pregnancy and up to 12 months after delivery.
If you have MO HealthNet Managed Care, visit their website to learn more about what benefits and resources they provide:
Medical Care
As you prepare for pregnancy, you should visit your doctor for a check-up. Your doctor will make sure any medications you take are safe for your pregnancy. It is also important to continue your regular dental check-ups.
Your doctor will ask you about your and your partner’s family medical history. This will help your doctor assess your risk of any complications with pregnancy.
Most Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) show no symptoms but can cause issues as early as the pre-pregnancy stage. If you are planning a pregnancy, have your doctor perform STI testing in preparation.
Once you become pregnant you are more vulnerable to diseases. Staying up-to-date on all your vaccines can help protect you and your baby.
Mental health is important when planning for your pregnancy. Hormonal changes caused by pregnancy can intensify mental health issues. Seek out a mental health professional at the beginning to support you through your pregnancy and through the year following the pregnancy.
Lifestyle Changes
Since nearly half of pregnancies are unexpected, anyone of childbearing age should take folic acid, avoid drugs and alcohol, and eat a healthy diet. If you need help with substance or alcohol use, find a treatment center near you to get help right away.
Folic acid is extremely important for your growing baby and pregnancy health. Folic acid is a water soluble B-vitamin that must be taken daily, because your body cannot store it. Taking a daily prenatal multivitamin containing 400 mcg of Folic acid is recommended. MO HealthNet and many other healthcare plans cover the cost of prenatal vitamins. If you do not have health insurance, you may qualify for MO HealthNet.
Eating healthy, including lots of fruits and vegetables and plenty of carbohydrates, fats, and protein is important for your baby’s healthy development during your pregnancy. You may be eligible for free food and nutrition counseling through Missouri’s Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program. To learn more about WIC or apply, visit wic.mo.gov.
You should avoid drugs and alcohol as soon as you start trying to get pregnant. Drugs and alcohol can harm your chances of conceiving. Drug and alcohol use can lead to preterm birth, miscarriage, low birth weight, and fetal alcohol syndrome.
https://healthymomsbabies.mo.gov/
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