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Prenatal Care Declines, Threatening Maternal Health Nationwide

2/20/2026

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Summary

Story summary

A federal report shows first-trimester prenatal care fell from 78.3% in 2021 to 75.5% in 2024.
Concurrently, late or no prenatal care increased.
Among Black mothers, first-trimester care declined from 69.7% to 65.1%.
Experts link late care to higher maternal mortality rates, with rural access issues and maternity care deserts contributing.
Doctors warn that if the trend continues, maternal health outcomes may worsen.

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Story summary

A federal report shows first-trimester prenatal care fell from 78.3% in 2021 to 75.5% in 2024.
Concurrently, late or no prenatal care increased.
Among Black mothers, first-trimester care declined from 69.7% to 65.1%.
Experts link late care to higher maternal mortality rates, with rural access issues and maternity care deserts contributing.
Doctors warn that if the trend continues, maternal health outcomes may worsen.