The Institute for Family Health Set to Launch Program That Expands Access to Care for Postpartum Women

The Institute for Family Health was awarded a one year grant from the March of Dimes to improve health outcomes among postpartum women. The Institute will conduct targeted outreach to as many as 250 women in New York City to ensure that they return for timely postpartum and “interconception” – between pregnancies – care. March of Dimes funding will support evidence-based care as well as training for Institute providers and staff.

This grant builds upon the Institute’s expertise in providing high-quality care to reproductive age women. Many Institute clinicians report that too often, patients, especially younger women, become pregnant again within a year of giving birth. Rapid repeat pregnancies (pregnancies that occur within six months of giving birth) are associated with negative birth outcomes and infant mortality. Increased access to comprehensive postpartum and interconception care – which includes risk assessments, health education, counseling, and access to contraception – will reduce unplanned pregnancies, and improve the overall health and well-being of postpartum women and their babies.

“Advancement of women’s health is a top priority at the Institute,” said Dr. Linda Prine, program director. “We have implemented several other programs funded by the March of Dimes that have seen dramatic decreases in low birth weight, premature births, and c-section rates. This program will expand access to family planning options and provide critical postpartum support for new moms.”

To learn more about Women’s Health Services at the Institute, click here.