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Pregnancy

Healthy pregnancies are essential for the well-being of mothers, infants, families and communities. Although pregnancy is an exciting time, there are stresses and risks that come with pregnancy and the postpartum period.

Maternal deaths in the United States are increasing. Approximately 700 women in the United States die every year as a result of a pregnancy or pregnancy-related complication. According to the CDC, from 2011-2015 more than one-third of pregnancy related deaths were caused by cardiovascular conditions, such as cardiomyopathy. Additionally, mental health conditions and accidental poisonings due to substance use also contribute to the number of pregnancy related deaths.   

Disparities in Maternal Health

In both the United States and Pennsylvania, there are racial and ethnic disparities in maternal health and maternal mortality. In Pennsylvania specifically, African American women are three times more likely to die during or after pregnancy than white women. The gap between health outcomes for African American and white women is evidence that there is more work to be done to understand, reduce, and prevent pregnancy related deaths. To ensure that all women in Pennsylvania have healthy pregnancies, the Pennsylvania Department of Health has made maternal and child health a priority.

Information for Pregnant & Postpartum Women

One way to ensure a healthy pregnancy is to know about potential complications and ways to manage any problems that come up during and after pregnancy. The resources below have information on risk factors, warning signs, and ways to protect yourself and your baby. Once you know you are pregnant, contact your healthcare provider as soon as possible to begin your prenatal care.

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​Maternal Health

There are health conditions that can affect women during and after pregnancy. Being aware of common conditions like high blood pressure and other cardiovascular conditions helps to ensure healthy outcomes for women and newborns. 

​Maternal Mental Health

Mental health conditions like depression and anxiety are very common during and after pregnancy. Hormonal changes and the stress of pregnancy may trigger symptoms of mental health conditions like postpartum depression.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) for free and confidential support. 

Substance Use & Pregnancy

Substance use during and after pregnancy can affect the health of both women and newborns. Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357) to find a drug and/or alcohol treatment provider or funding for addiction treatment.

Helpful Phone Numbers

Resources are available to help women during pregnancy and the postpartum period.

Maternity Care Coverage

Healthy pregnancies are essential for mothers and infants. Get answers to questions about health insurance coverage during pregnancy.

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Licensed Hospitals with an Obstetric Unit and Birth Centers in Pennsylvania

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​The facilities included in this map are general acute care hospitals with an obstetric unit and licensed birth centers identified through the Department of Health's Bureau of Licensure and Certification and the 2018 Annual Hospital Questionnaire. Also included are specialty and federal hospitals with more than 5 live births in 2018, as identified in the Annual Hospital Questionnaire. If you represent a facility and believe there is an error in this information, or believe your facility should be added to this map, please contact RA-DHMMRC@pa.gov.