Maternal health remains a critical issue in Virginia. Between 2019\u20132023, there were 34.5 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births, and many of these deaths are considered preventable. Significant disparities also exist\u2014Black women in Virginia are more than twice as likely to die from pregnancy-related causes compared to White women.<\/p>\n
Access to care is another challenge. In Virginia, 31% of counties are considered maternity care deserts, meaning limited or no access to maternity services. If you want to learn more about Maternal Health data in Virginia, see the VDH Maternal Health Dashboard here: VDH Maternal Health Dashboard<\/a><\/p>\n Programs like CHWs and doulas play an important role in closing these gaps by providing support, education, and connection to care.<\/p>\n In addition to CHW and doula services, we also offer:<\/p>\n Who can access these services? These services are available to:<\/p>\n \u00b7 Pregnant individuals<\/p>\n \u00b7 Postpartum individuals (up to 12 months after birth, or as defined by program guidelines)<\/p>\n \u00b7 Families with young children who meet eligibility requirements for specific programs (such as car seat and safe sleep services)<\/p>\n \u00b7 Individuals who meet income or program eligibility criteria when applicable<\/p>\n We strive to serve diverse communities and reduce barriers to care, including for those who may be uninsured or underinsured.<\/p>\n If you\u2019re interested in receiving services or learning more, please visit: Maternal & Child Health Interest Form – RedCap<\/a><\/p>\n What is a Community Health Worker (CHW)?<\/p>\n A Community Health Worker (CHW) is a trained professional who supports individuals by connecting them to healthcare services, community resources, and education.<\/p>\n CHWs often come from the communities they serve, making them uniquely positioned to provide culturally appropriate support, advocacy, and guidance throughout pregnancy and beyond.<\/p>\n CHWs help with things like:<\/p>\n A doula is a trained professional who provides continuous physical, emotional, and informational support before, during, and after childbirth. Doulas do not provide medical care but work alongside healthcare providers to ensure the birthing person feels informed, respected, and supported.<\/p>\n Research shows that doula support can: \u00b7 Improve birth experiences<\/p>\n \u00b7 Reduce stress and anxiety<\/p>\n \u00b7 Support better communication with healthcare providers<\/p>\n \u00b7 Increase confidence during pregnancy and childbirth<\/p>\n Maternal health impacts the well-being of both the parent and baby. In Virginia:<\/p>\n \u00b7 Nearly 10% of births are preterm, which can lead to long-term health challenges<\/p>\n \u00b7 Many pregnancy-related deaths occur weeks to months after delivery, highlighting the need for continued support beyond birth<\/p>\n \u00b7 Some communities experience higher rates of late or no prenatal care, increasing health risks<\/p>\n With the right support systems in place\u2014like CHWs and doulas\u2014many of these outcomes can be improved.<\/p>\n The Statewide Safety Seat Program is a statewide child safety distribution and education program offered free of charge to eligible families. Safety restraint devices provided include a convertible safety seat with a starting weight of 5 pounds and a belt-positioning booster seat.<\/p>\n General criteria for eligibility:<\/p>\n \u2022 A resident of Virginia \u2014 citizenship not required.<\/p>\n \u2022 The legal parent or guardian of the child (third trimester through seven years).<\/p>\n \u2022 Meets income eligibility to WIC, Medicaid, TANF, SNAP, FAMIS or LISSDEP Income Level Guidelines.<\/p>\n \u2022 Child must fit within the program\u2019s devices; set by manufacturer\u2019s guidelines.<\/p>\n \u2022 Parent or legal guardian must complete training in correct seat use and installation.<\/p>\n \u2022 Sign a waiver of liability release.<\/p>\n Safe sleep practices help protect infants during their most vulnerable months. We provide education and guidance to ensure families understand how to reduce the risk of sleep-related deaths.<\/p>\n \u00b7 Participants are screened for eligibility to receive a free pack and play, helping ensure every baby has a safe, appropriate sleep environment at home.<\/p>\n For general questions or more information about the Safe Sleep Program, call our Maternal Community Health Worker Marilyn at\u00a0434-408-1447<\/strong>\u00a0or email us at\u00a0piedmont.maternalchw@vdh.virginia.gov<\/strong>.<\/p>\n Safe Sleep Links:<\/p>\n If you’re interested in the Safe Sleep program, please submit an application at Safe Sleep Application Form – RedCap<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n Our classes provide practical, evidence-based education in a supportive environment. Families learn what to expect during labor, how to cope with contractions, and how to make informed decisions about their care.<\/p>\n Participants also benefit from:<\/p>\n \u00b7 Hands-on practice with comfort techniques<\/p>\n \u00b7 Partner involvement and support strategies<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Moms Under Pressure is a program focused on monitoring and managing blood pressure during pregnancy and the postpartum period to help prevent complications such as hypertension and preeclampsia.<\/p>\n Participants receive:<\/p>\n \u00b7 A blood pressure cuff kit to monitor blood pressure at home<\/p>\n \u00b7 Education on warning signs of high blood pressure and related conditions<\/p>\n \u00b7 Guidance on when to seek medical care<\/p>\n \u00b7 Support from Community Health Workers to stay on track with monitoring and appointments<\/p>\n\n
\n<\/a>Frequently Asked Questions<\/h2>\n
What does a CHW do in maternal health?<\/h3>\n
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\nWhat is a doula?<\/h2>\n
What are the benefits of having a doula?<\/h3>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/126\/doulas-1-300x103.jpg\")
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\nWhy is maternal health important?<\/h2>\n
\nCar Seat Classes<\/h2>\n
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\nSafe Sleep Crib Program<\/h2>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/126\/Picture1-300x200.png\")
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\nChildbirth Classes<\/h2>\n
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\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/www.vdh.virginia.gov\/content\/uploads\/sites\/126\/Moms-under-pressure-2-2-300x103.png\")
<\/a><\/h2>\nMoms Under Pressure<\/h2>\n
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