Perinatal Services

Navigating pregnancy and the early days of parenthood can be both joyful and overwhelming. From managing health concerns to understanding what to expect during childbirth and beyond, parents often need guidance and support throughout this journey—and that’s where perinatal services come in. Perinatal services are a vital network of support that guides families through these transformative stages. 

By offering medical care, education, and emotional support, perinatal services can ensure that parents and babies receive the comprehensive care they need for a healthy start together.

What Are Perinatal Services?

Perinatal services refer to the continuum of care provided to women and their families during pregnancy (prenatal), childbirth (intrapartum), and the postpartum period (learn more). This care extends to the newborn, addressing both medical and emotional needs. The primary goal is to promote healthy pregnancies, safe deliveries, and positive outcomes for mothers and infants. 

Core components of perinatal services include:

• Routine prenatal check-ups and screenings

• Medical management of pregnancy-related conditions

• Childbirth education and birth planning

• Mental health support and counseling

• Postpartum care for mothers

• Newborn care and early pediatric visits

• Lactation and infant feeding support

• Referrals to community resources and support services

How Perinatal Services Help Families

1. Promoting Healthy Pregnancies and Safe Births

Early and regular perinatal care helps identify and manage potential health concerns before they become serious. Through regular check-ups, healthcare providers can monitor the growth and development of the baby, screen for complications, and offer timely interventions. This proactive approach reduces the risk of preterm births, low birth weight, and maternal complications, ultimately leading to healthier outcomes for both mother and child. 

2. Comprehensive Support for the Whole Family

Modern perinatal care is family-centered, recognizing that pregnancy and childbirth affect the entire household. Services often include education and counseling for partners and other family members, helping them understand what to expect and how to provide support. This holistic approach fosters a supportive environment, reduces stress, and helps families transition smoothly into their new roles.

3. Mental Health and Emotional Well-being

The perinatal period can be emotionally challenging. Many services now incorporate mental health support, offering counseling and resources to address anxiety, depression, and the emotional adjustments of parenthood. Extending support into the postpartum period is especially important, as it can buffer families against stress and help prevent postpartum depression.

4. Specialized Care for High-Risk Pregnancies

Some pregnancies require extra attention due to medical conditions, age, or previous complications. Perinatal services include specialized care for high-risk mothers, ensuring they receive the monitoring and interventions needed to manage risks. Hospitals and clinics often have formal agreements to transfer patients to higher-level facilities if advanced care is needed, ensuring safety for both mother and baby.

5. Education and Empowerment

Perinatal services provide vital education on topics such as nutrition, breastfeeding, newborn care, and postpartum recovery. By equipping families with knowledge, these services empower parents to make informed decisions and confidently care for their newborns. Parenting classes and community resources further extend this support, making families feel less isolated and more prepared.

6. Access and Affordability

Many providers strive to make perinatal care accessible to all, regardless of insurance status or ability to pay. Sliding fee scales, Medicaid acceptance, and connections to programs like WIC ensure that cost is not a barrier to receiving essential care.

Perinatal services are much more than routine doctor visits—they are a lifeline for families during one of life’s most transformative times. By offering medical, emotional, and educational support, these services help ensure that every pregnancy counts and every family has the best possible start. Investing in perinatal care is an investment in the health and future of our communities.

A strong foundation for healthy family dynamics in the years to come begins with prioritizing perinatal care, which improves outcomes for both mothers and infants alike. If you need help finding perinatal care in the Abilene, TX area, Pregnancy Resources of Abilene can assist you in getting set up with the care you need! We also have many support services to help you along your prenatal journey. Call or text today (https://www.prabilene.com/contact) to learn about services focused on your health and your baby's well-being during this critical time.