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Late Prenatal Care Risks Rise for U.S. Mothers

11/17/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The March of Dimes reports that many U.S. women begin prenatal care in the second or third trimester.
Dr. L. Joy Baker of the March of Dimes notes that inadequate prenatal care can lead to complications for mothers and babies, including preterm births.
Barriers such as lack of access to care, insurance issues, and socioeconomic factors drive late prenatal care and higher preterm birth rates for Medicaid recipients.

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Story summary

The March of Dimes reports that many U.S. women begin prenatal care in the second or third trimester.
Dr. L. Joy Baker of the March of Dimes notes that inadequate prenatal care can lead to complications for mothers and babies, including preterm births.
Barriers such as lack of access to care, insurance issues, and socioeconomic factors drive late prenatal care and higher preterm birth rates for Medicaid recipients.