Pregnancy can be both exciting and overwhelming, which is why support and community are so important during the journey. At Advance Community Health, the Centering Pregnancy Model offers expectant mothers a unique prenatal care experience that combines medical care, education, and peer support.
We spoke with Ke’ara Perry, a medical assistant in the OB/GYN Department and facilitator of the program, to learn more about how Centering Pregnancy helps mothers feel empowered and connected throughout pregnancy.
What Is the Centering Pregnancy Model?
The Centering Pregnancy model brings together groups of 7–9 expectant mothers who have similar due dates. During the two-hour sessions, patients receive prenatal care, including belly checks, glucose testing, shots, and STI testing as needed, while also participating in group discussions and education.
According to Perry, the goal is “to build a community before, during, and after delivery for the mamas and babies.”
How Is It Different from Traditional Prenatal Care?
Unlike traditional one-on-one appointments, Centering Pregnancy allows patients to connect with others in similar stages of pregnancy.
“Everybody gets a chance to share concerns and relate to others who may be experiencing the same things,” Perry explained.
The program also provides additional support through pediatric tours, behavioral health resources, doulas, and breastfeeding support during sessions.
What Happens During a Session?
Sessions are held in an open group setting with patients, a medical assistant, and a provider. Patients begin by checking their own vital signs, then meet individually with the provider to discuss symptoms and hear fetal heart tones.
The group then comes together to discuss topics such as:
- Nutrition
- Breastfeeding
- Labor preparation
- Preterm labor symptoms
- Infant care and swaddling
- Back pain and overall pregnancy wellness
Groups are organized by due date, so education matches each stage of pregnancy.
Benefits Beyond Medical Care
One of the biggest benefits of the program is the strong sense of community it creates among expectant mothers. Participants can connect with others who are experiencing similar stages of pregnancy, creating a supportive and encouraging environment where they can openly share questions, experiences, and advice. The connections formed often help mothers feel more confident, less isolated, and more supported throughout their pregnancy and postpartum journey.
Stay Connected
From women’s health to prenatal care and beyond, our board-certified professionals are dedicated to improving access to care and offering compassionate support for all women across their lifetimes.
Click below to learn more about women’s health and the OB/GYN services at Advance Community Health!
