Support for Rhode Island Moms During Pregnancy and After Birth

Photo courtesy of UnitedHealthcare Community Plan

Pregnancy and the months after birth can be a happy time. They can also bring worry and questions. For many Rhode Island moms, the problem isn’t knowing they need care. The problem is knowing where to go and how to get it. The health care system can feel confusing and hard to manage.

Research suggests that more than 15% of new moms in Rhode Island do not get care during the first three months of pregnancy. When care feels hard to reach, moms may feel stressed or alone. Support matters and no one should go through pregnancy or recover by themselves.

Here are some mistakes to avoid. Getting help can make your pregnancy journey easier.

1. Don’t wait to reach out for care

If you think you might be pregnant, call a doctor right away. Early visits can help with making a care plan. It can also help deal with health problems earlier. A pregnancy checklist can help you get ready for visits without feeling stressed. If you don’t have a doctor, help is available. Call the number on your insurance card or contact your local health department to help find care.

2. Don’t feel like you need all the answers

Pregnancy can feel confusing, and it’s okay not to know what to ask. You are not expected to know everything. Tools like the Healthy Pregnancy Quiz can help you learn what to expect and feel ready for visits.

3. Don’t miss available resources

Many women in Rhode Island face barriers to care. One of those barriers is not knowing that help is there for you. Resources can include more than doctor visits, based on your plan. Some plans may cover vitamins or help with healthy food. You don’t have to figure this out alone. Help is available to explain what your plan covers.

Some members with Rhode Island health plans may also be able to get doula services. Doulas offer emotional, physical and learning support during pregnancy and after birth.

4. Don’t forget your own health after delivery

After a baby arrives, many moms put their own health to the side. Your health still matters. Postpartum, or after birth, care is an important part of healing. As part of your pregnancy timeline, schedule a visit within three weeks of birth. You should plan a full checkup by 12 weeks. These visits help with healing, mental health and other needs after delivery.

5. Don’t try to do everything by yourself

Pregnancy and recovery after birth can be hard without help. Help from your community can make a difference. UnitedHealthcare Community Plan members can get help from a case management team by calling 1-800-672-2156. If you have a different insurance carrier, reference the back of your insurance card for important numbers and resources.

UnitedHealthcare works with local partners to bring care closer to families. This includes care before and after the baby is here, mental health help and nutrition programs. Some services are offered through mobile clinics and community programs.

Every pregnancy is different, and every family has different needs. With early care and trusted resources, Rhode Island moms don’t have to do this alone.

To learn more about pregnancy and after birth help, visit everypregnancy.com. With the right support, you can feel confident and cared for at every step.