What is Birth Equity?

While these issues are complicated, addressing them can improve the health and well-being of all families. Key state policies can help achieve these goals while respecting diverse values and local priorities.

Four Popular State Policies That Advance Birth Equity

Medicaid Expansion for Pregnant and Postpartum Women

1. • What It Does: Medicaid expansion provides more low-income mothers with access to critical prenatal and postpartum care, significantly improving maternal and infant health outcomes.
   • Why It Matters: Early and consistent access to healthcare is crucial for identifying and managing health risks, which reduces complications and supports healthier outcomes. Expanding Medicaid coverage for postpartum care beyond the standard 60 days to 12 months supports ongoing health, especially for mothers at risk of postpartum depression or other medical conditions that may arise after delivery.
   • Benefits: Lower emergency healthcare costs, better maternal and infant health, and increased family stability.

Support for Doula and Midwifery Services

1. • What It Does: Expanding Medicaid or private insurance coverage for doulas and certified nurse-midwives increases families’ access to non-medical and prenatal support. Doulas and midwives provide valuable services, from prenatal visits to birth support and postpartum care, with proven benefits.
   • Why It Matters: Studies show that doula support leads to lower rates of preterm births, C-sections, and improved maternal mental health. Similarly, midwifery services offer high-quality care, especially important for families in rural or underserved areas with limited access to hospitals or healthcare providers.
   • Benefits: Healthier mothers and babies, more choice in birthing options, and access to trusted support for expecting families.

Paid Family and Medical Leave

1. • What It Does: Paid family and medical leave enables parents to take time off for childbirth and postpartum recovery without sacrificing financial stability.
   • Why It Matters: Families with paid leave experience less stress and more secure bonding between parents and children, contributing to better long-term health outcomes. Paid leave also enhances workforce stability, as parents are more likely to return to work after taking needed time to recover and care for their newborns.
   • Benefits: Improved family well-being, enhanced workforce retention, and reduced healthcare costs due to better mental health and family support.

Expanded Access to Prenatal and Postpartum Care

1. • What It Does: Investing in healthcare infrastructure—through community health centers, mobile health clinics, and telehealth options—helps ensure that all families, regardless of location, can access prenatal and postpartum care.
   • Why It Matters: Preventive care reduces risks for both mother and baby, decreasing the likelihood of costly` emergency interventions. Access to postpartum mental health support is equally important, helping to address challenges like postpartum depression that affect family well-being.
   • Benefits: Prevented complications, reduced long-term healthcare costs, and more resilient families and communities.

By adopting these policies, states can improve maternal and infant health outcomes, reduce long-term healthcare costs, and support family and community resilience.