Parkland Community Health Plan members: did you know that new and expecting moms can get a free breast pump with a prescription from their provider? For breastfeeding moms, a breast pump can make life a little easier by helping you save time and store milk for when you need it. How can I order a breast pump? PCHP partners with several companies that offer breast pumps and other medical equipment. Once your provider gives you a prescription, you can contact one of these approved suppliers directly. (PCHP...
After your baby is born, the first days and weeks back home can be exhausting. It’s important to take extra-good care of yourself as you recover from childbirth. Your labor and delivery might be normal. However, you should watch for signs of infection, high blood pressure, and other symptoms. Otherwise, you could end up back in the hospital! Call your doctor right away if you notice any of the symptoms listed below. “Postpartum depression” feelings, such as: Extreme anxiety Lack of interest in things yo...
Are you a woman age 15 or older who needs birth control, family planning, postpartum, or other health care services? Healthy Texas Women can help. Managed by Texas Health and Human Services (HHSC), the Healthy Texas Women program offers these benefits to eligible women—at no cost. Who can apply for Healthy Texas Women? You can receive these benefits if you are a woman: Who does not have health insurance. Who is a resident of Texas. Between 18 to 44 years old. Between 15 to ...
Having a baby can be exciting – but for many new moms, it can be overwhelming, too. Are you expecting your first child? You may be unsure of what to expect or how to prepare for your new arrival. First-time moms who are PCHP members may be able to get extra support from our Nurse-Family Partnership program. Who can participate? The program is open to first-time moms who join before their 28th week of pregnancy. Moms can participate in the program until their child is 2 years old. How does it work? A nur...
Black Maternal Health Week takes place April 11–17 of every year – which makes it a good time to focus on access to prenatal and postpartum care for this important group of mothers. The Facts About Black Maternal Health Unfortunately, American women are more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than women in other high-income nations. In 2023, there were 18.6 deaths per 100,000 live births. In addition, 1 in 9 Texas children is born prematurely. In the U.S., these rates are higher for Black women...
Breastfeeding is an important way to help your baby start life on a healthy note. Breastmilk includes nutrients and antibodies that help reduce the baby’s risk of illness – including ear infections, breathing problems, asthma, diabetes, obesity, and sudden unexplained death in infancy, also known as sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). Breastmilk is also easier for babies to digest, which can help prevent diarrhea and other stomach problems. Breastfeeding is good for moms, too! It helps burn calories, w...
Are you a new or expecting mom? If so, you may have heard about the benefits of breastfeeding . Breast milk is a good source of nutrition and can help build your baby’s immune system. It has health benefits for mothers, too – moms who breastfeed can reduce their risk of high blood pressure, breast cancer, and other diseases. A breast pump can be a helpful tool for new moms who are breastfeeding. It allows you to collect your breast milk at any time of day and store it for later use. If you are a member ...
You may know that good prenatal care is important for the health of your baby. It’s also important for new moms to keep getting regular care after birth – so they can stay healthy, too. Jeanne Bandelaria, a pediatric physician assistant in North Texas, explains why postpartum visits are so important, and what to expect when you visit your doctor for a checkup. When Should I Schedule My Postpartum Checkup? New moms should schedule a postpartum checkup within three weeks after giving birth, followed by a ...
After giving birth, it’s normal to feel some “moodiness.” You will probably lose sleep while caring for your new baby. In addition, your hormone levels drop and your body starts producing breast milk. These changes can be hard on your body and mind. Almost all mothers will have times where they feel weepy, cranky, worried, or sad. If you get support and can catch up on sleep, your mood swings should improve after a week or two. However, if you develop depression after giving birth, recovery is much more...
Were you pregnant recently? If you received Medicaid or CHIP benefits while pregnant, you can now keep those benefits for a year after your pregnancy ends. As of March 1, 2024, Texas Health and Human Services (HHSC) has extended its postpartum Medicaid and CHIP coverage from 2 to 12 months of benefits for eligible women. Who Qualifies for the Extra Coverage? Medicaid or CHIP recipients who are pregnant or become pregnant, and women who enroll because they become pregnant. Medicaid or CHIP recipients who...
Have you or someone in your family recently been admitted to the hospital? Some common reasons for a hospital stay include surgery, childbirth, or treatment for complications from diabetes. If you are recovering from any of those conditions, keep reading. Here, you’ll find tips to help you to stay safe and healthy during your first few days—and weeks—back home. Symptoms that could be an emergency No matter what reason led to your hospital stay, you should call your doctor immediately if you experience: ...
After those long months of pregnancy, your baby is here at last! As you adjust to life with your little one, you may feel overwhelmed at times. Take a look at the tips below for ideas to ease the first few weeks and months of motherhood. Accept help You might want to do everything for your new baby. But if your loved ones offer help—accept it. Whether it’s holding the baby while you take a shower or making meals for you, there are many ways that others can lend a hand. Let them! Get as much rest as poss...