The Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Services Program protects and promotes the health of children and youth, mothers, and families. Learn more: Alabama Public Health: Maternal and Child Health.
Maternal and Child Health Hotline: Call 1-800-654-1385 for guidance and assistance. Local Health Departments: Find nearby services and other resources via the ADPH County Health Departments Directory and the ADPH Pregnancy Resource Page.
State program focused on perinatal care include:
1. Alabama Medicaid Maternity Program
Description: Provides comprehensive healthcare coverage for pregnant women, including prenatal care, labor and delivery, and postpartum services. Care is coordinated through the Alabama Coordinated Health Network (ACHN) to improve maternal and infant outcomes.
Eligibility: Based on income; typically covers women up to 133% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).
Coverage Includes:
Doctor visits, lab tests, ultrasounds
Hospital delivery
Postpartum check-ups and family planning
How to Apply: Submit an application online or at your local health department
Learn More: Alabama Medicaid Maternity Program
2. ALL Babies Program
Description: A low-cost insurance program that provides maternity care for pregnant women and their newborns who do not qualify for full Medicaid but meet certain income criteria (133%-141% of the FPL). Services are administered through Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama.
Coverage Includes:
Regular doctor visits
Hospital delivery
Postpartum care (up to 2 months)
Newborn care and family planning services
Cost: Sliding scale based on income.
Learn More: ALL Babies Program
3. ALL Kids (CHIP)
Description: The Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) in Alabama, offering low-cost insurance for children up to age 19. Designed for families earning too much for Medicaid but unable to afford private insurance.
Coverage Includes:
Preventative care (check-ups, vaccines)
Doctor visits, hospital stays
Prescriptions, dental, vision, and behavioral health care
Cost: Premiums and copays are income-based but affordable.
How to Apply: Submit an application online or via mail.
Learn More: ALL Kids Program
4. Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program - Alabama
Description: A federal assistance program providing nutrition support to low-income pregnant, postpartum women, infants, and children up to age 5 who are at nutritional risk.
Services Include:
Vouchers for healthy foods (milk, fruits, vegetables, cereal, etc.)
Breastfeeding support and free breast pumps
Nutrition counseling and health referrals
Eligibility: Based on income and nutritional risk (determined by a health professional).
How to Apply: Contact your local WIC clinic to schedule an appointment.
Learn More: Alabama WIC Program
6. Healthy Start Program - Alabama
Description: Focuses on reducing disparities in infant mortality and maternal health outcomes, especially in underserved communities. Provides case management and social support to high-risk mothers and families.
Services Include:
Access to prenatal and postnatal care
Parenting education
Coordination with local healthcare providers and social services
Eligibility: Focused on high-risk areas or populations.
Learn More: Healthy Start Programs in Alabama
7. Plan First Program
Description: A Medicaid family planning program offering free birth control and reproductive health services to eligible women of childbearing age. Designed to reduce unintended pregnancies and improve family health.
Services Include:
Contraceptives (pills, IUDs, etc.)
Annual exams and Pap smears
STD testing and treatment
Eligibility: For women who do not qualify for full Medicaid.
Learn More: Plan First Program
8. Early Intervention Program - Alabama
Description: Provides services to infants and toddlers (birth to age 3) with developmental delays or disabilities. Offers therapy and support to help children reach their full potential.
Services Include:
Speech, physical, and occupational therapy
Family training and counseling
Service coordination
Eligibility: For children with developmental delays or diagnosed conditions.
Learn More: Alabama Early Intervention System (AEIS)
9. Home Visiting Programs
Programs Include:
Nurse-Family Partnership: Provides support to first-time mothers during pregnancy and early parenting years. Learn More.
Parents as Teachers: Offers home visits to guide parents on child development and health.
Services Include:
Education on infant care and parenting
Developmental screenings for children
Referrals to community resources
10. Breastfeeding Support Services
Description: Promotes breastfeeding through hospitals, WIC clinics, and community programs. Free lactation consulting and breastfeeding classes are available statewide.
Services Include:
Breastfeeding counseling
Free or low-cost breast pump rentals through WIC
Peer support groups for breastfeeding mothers
Learn More: Breastfeeding Resources - ADPH
In Alabama, perinatal care is provided by a variety of healthcare professionals and institutions, including obstetricians, maternal-fetal medicine specialists, certified nurse midwives, and primary care providers, among others.
Perinatal Providers:
1. Physicians: Obstetricians (OB/GYNs) are primary providers for pregnancy care, including prenatal visits, labor and delivery, and postpartum care. They are trained to manage normal and high-risk pregnancies. Many OB/GYNs are available across Alabama, with larger concentrations in urban centers such as Birmingham, Montgomery, and Mobile. OB/GYNs with specialized training in high-risk pregnancies (Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialists) offer advanced diagnostic and treatment services for women with complex health conditions, multiple pregnancies, fetal abnormalities, or other complications during pregnancy. Facilities such as the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Hospital have Maternal-Fetal Medicine departments.
Some family medicine doctors provide prenatal and perinatal care, particularly in rural areas where access to OB/GYNs may be limited. They may provide care for low-risk pregnancies but refer higher-risk cases to specialists.
Pediatricians focus on the health of infants after birth, neonatologists are specialized pediatricians who care for newborns with complications, especially in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs).
2. Nurses and Midwives: Certified Nurse Midwives (CNMs) provide prenatal, labor, and postpartum care, particularly for women seeking a more natural birthing experience or desiring a low-risk pregnancy. They often work in collaboration with OB/GYNs and other healthcare providers. Nurse Practitioners (NPs) including Women's Health NPs or Family NPs who may provide prenatal and postpartum care under a collaborative agreement with physicians.
There are midwifery practices in various parts of the state, particularly in larger cities or more rural areas. Alabama has only allowed certified professional midwives (CPM) to perform births since 2019, although they are still excluded from participating in hospital births. Learn more.
3. Physician Assistants (PAs): May provide prenatal and postpartum care, often working in collaboration with obstetricians or family medicine doctors.
Other Perinatal Professionals
4. Doulas: Provide non-medical physical and emotional support during labor and postpartum. Often advocate for patient preferences in birthing settings.
5. Home Visitors: Programs like Alabama's Nurse-Family Partnership offer home visits by nurses or community health workers to support at-risk families during and after pregnancy.
6. Behavioral Health Professionals: Include counselors and psychologists specializing in perinatal mental health, such as managing postpartum depression or anxiety.
7. Lactation Consultants: Specialize in breastfeeding support and education. Provide guidance on nursing techniques and help resolve breastfeeding challenges.
8. Others: Social Workers and Case Managers: Offer support for navigating healthcare systems and addressing social determinants of health (e.g., housing, food security, mental health services). Dietitians and Nutritionists: Provide dietary guidance for healthy pregnancies and management of gestational diabetes or other nutritional concerns. Physical Therapists (PTs): Specialize in pelvic health, helping with pregnancy-related pain and postpartum recovery. Ultrasound Technicians (Sonographers): Perform prenatal ultrasounds to monitor the baby's development and assess maternal health.
Institutions: Hospitals and Organization
1. Hospitals and Medical Centers
University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) Hospital: UAB is a major provider of perinatal care in Alabama, with a specialized maternal-fetal medicine department, high-risk pregnancy care, and a Level IV NICU.
Baptist Health: With hospitals in Montgomery and other locations, Baptist Health provides perinatal services, including labor and delivery, high-risk pregnancy management, and postpartum care.
Huntsville Hospital: This hospital offers a full range of perinatal services, including maternity care and neonatal care.
Mobile Infirmary: Provides comprehensive maternal care, including high-risk obstetrics and neonatal services.
Brookwood Baptist Health: Offers perinatal care, including childbirth education and delivery services.
2. Community Health Centers and Rural Health Clinics
In rural areas, community health centers and rural clinics may provide prenatal care, often in partnership with larger hospitals or health systems for specialized care.
3. Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH)
The ADPH offers resources and support for pregnant women, including programs to promote healthy pregnancies, prenatal education, and referrals for medical care. They operate the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) program, which provides nutrition support for low-income pregnant women and new mothers.
4. Non-profit organizations
In Alabama, women can give birth in various types of facilities, including hospitals, birth centers, and occasionally at home with appropriate support. Here are some options for women looking to give birth in the state:
1. Hospitals
Hospitals are the most common place for childbirth in Alabama, providing a range of services from routine to high-risk deliveries. Many hospitals also offer specialized care, such as Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) for premature or high-risk infants. FQHCs focus on providing prenatal care and general health services, some may offer delivery services, particularly in underserved rural areas. These facilities provide access to obstetricians, anesthesiologists, neonatologists, and advanced medical equipment for maternal and infant care.
Notable Hospital Systems for Maternity Care:
UAB Women & Infants Center (Birmingham): Specializes in high-risk pregnancies and neonatal intensive care.
Huntsville Hospital for Women & Children: Offers comprehensive maternity services, including NICU support.
USA Health Children's & Women's Hospital (Mobile): Provides maternity care and specialized services for complications during pregnancy.
Baptist Medical Center East (Montgomery): Recognized for its maternity care and labor & delivery suites.
2. Home Births - Some women choose to have a home birth, typically supported by certified nurse-midwives (CNMs) or licensed midwives.
3. Military Facilities - For military families, births may take place at military hospitals or clinics, such as Fox Army Health Center in Huntsville. These facilities provide maternity care to eligible service members and their families.
4. Birth Centers: Alabama has very few freestanding birth centers compared to other states. Learn more at Alabama Birth Coalition: . Additionally, some hospitals in Alabama have dedicated birth centers within their facilities, offering family-centered maternity care.
In Alabama, several insurance options are available to support perinatal care, ensuring that pregnant women receive comprehensive healthcare services. Here are some key programs and services:
1. State Plans
a. Medicaid for Pregnant Women: Alabama Medicaid offers coverage for eligible pregnant women, providing access to necessary medical services throughout pregnancy and postpartum. Eligibility is determined based on income and other factors. Applications can be submitted online, by mail, or in person at local health departments or certain hospitals. Learn more.
b. ALL Babies Program: Administered by the Alabama Department of Public Health, the ALL Babies program provides low-cost, comprehensive healthcare coverage for eligible pregnant women residing in Alabama. This coverage option is available to pregnant women and their unborn children through Alabama's Children’s Health Insurance Program in an effort to improve health outcomes.
Services are delivered through Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama's Preferred Provider Network and include maternity care, doctor visits, mental health services, prescriptions, dental and vision care, emergency services, and two months of postpartum and family planning care. Learn more.
2. Employer-sponsored Plans
Pregnant consumers can enroll in coverage through an offer of employer-sponsored coverage (ESC) from their own employer or a spouse’s job. Many employers offer health insurance that includes maternity and newborn care. Coverage typically includes prenatal visits, ultrasounds, labor and delivery, and postpartum care.
3. Health Insurance Marketplace
Through the Health Insurance Marketplace, pregnant women can explore various health insurance plans that cover pregnancy and childbirth. Under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), all marketplace insurance plans are required to cover maternity and newborn care as essential health benefits. Alaskans can compare and enroll in plans through the federal marketplace at Healthcare.gov.
4. Private/ Individual Insurance Plans
Many private insurance providers in Alabama offer maternity coverage. For instance, the West Alabama Women's Center accepts Medicaid, Medicare, Plan First, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and other private insurances, and provides care at reduced fees for uninsured individuals.
Parent’s health insurance plan (if that plan offers dependent coverage) can also cover pregnant dependents bfore their 26th birthday. Employer-sponsored coverage for dependents usually ends during the month of the child’s 26th birthday. If the dependent is covered under their parent's Marketplace plan, the dependent can stay on their parent's plan until December 31 of the year they turn 26
For personalized assistance, contacting local health departments or the respective program offices can provide guidance tailored to individual circumstances.
Workplace Accomodations: Pregnant Workers Fairness Act went into effect in June 2023? This new law provides groundbreaking protections for pregnant, postpartum, and pumping workers, and gives you the right to get accommodations at work that will help you keep your job and protect your health.The law gives you the right to things like extra breaks, flexible scheduling to attend doctors' appointments, time off to recover from childbirth or miscarriage, light duty, remote work, and much more. Learn more.
TAKING TIME OFF FROM WORK:
Paid family leave : In Alabama, there is no paid family leave, but employees can access other types of leave depending on employer's policies.
Unpaid FMLA: If you work for a covered employer and meet certain criteria, you may be eligible for up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave under the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) for the birth of your child. Learn more.
Other options that can be explored by employees include:
- Short-Term Disability: If you have a short-term disability insurance policy, it might cover a portion of your income while you're off work due to childbirth.
- Sick Leave: Check if your employer offers sick leave that may be used for recovery after childbirth.
- Vacation Leave: If you have accrued vacation time, you may be able to use that for time off.
It's best to check with your HR department to understand what specific leave options are available to you. Need a template to reach out to your HR? HR Leave Inquiry Template.
Breastfeeding-related Rights:
The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) requires employers to provide reasonable break time for an employee to express breast milk for their nursing child for one year after the child's birth each time such employee has need to express the milk. Employees are entitled to a place to pump at work, other than a bathroom, that is shielded from view and free from intrusion from coworkers and the public.
On December 29, 2022, President Biden signed the Consolidated Appropriations Act, 2023 into law. This legislation introduced the PUMP for Nursing Mothers Act (“PUMP Act”), expanding these rights to more nursing employees, including agricultural workers, nurses, teachers, truck and taxi drivers, home care workers and managers.
The PUMP for Nursing Mothers Act requires employers to provide:
- Reasonable break time for an employee to express breast milk for their nursing child
- A place to pump at work, other than a bathroom, that is shielded from view and free from intrusion from coworkers and the public
These accommodations must be provided for one year after the child's birth and be available each time an employee needs it.
Learn more.
Talking to your boss about pumping at work.
Breastfeeding in Alabama
The Alabama WIC Program encourages WIC mothers to choose breastfeeding. Learn more. The Alabama WIC Breastfeeding Resource Guide lists community breastfeeding resources by county and is updated annually. Click here to access the Resource Guide.
Alabama WIC Pacify App
Alabama WIC participants now have free, unlimited access to expert infant feeding support, anytime - days, nights, weekends, and holidays. Participants are offered instantaneous video access to a nationwide network of International Board Certified Lactation Consultants (IBCLC’s), as well as direct access to local WIC clinics across the state. Learn more.
Alabama WIC participants who would like to access virtual infant feeding support through Pacify can contact their local Alabama WIC clinic or call the Alabama WIC Program state office in Montgomery toll free at 888-WIC-HOPE (888-942-4673).
Breast Pumps:
Alabama WIC Program participants who are interested in obtaining a breast pump can request one through the WIC clinic after their baby is born. Learn more here.
Virtual Breastfeeding Classes:
- Piedmont Atlanta Hospital - Basic and Beyond Basic classes available. Learn more about fees and signing up.
- La Leche League of Baldwin County, Alabama (Free). Meets monthly at 7 p.m. CST. Email rosamundelizabeth@gmail.com for dates and to register
- East Alabama Health Video of Pre-recorded Breastfeeding Class. (link)
- Virtual Breastfeeding Support Groups: See Details
- La Leche League of Baldwin County, Alabama
Mondays, 10 a.m. CST
Tuesdays, 8:30 p.m. CST
Via Zoom (Meeting ID 362 180 5897)
- Huntsville Hospital Group
Wednesdays 10-11 a.m. CST
Via Zoom (Meeting ID 754 791 1323)
- Reaching Our Sisters Everywhere (ROSE)
Based in Georgia
Mondays 1-3 p.m. EST
T hursdays 6-8 p.m. EST
Virtual Support Group/Baby Cafe
- Little Ones Lactation
2nd and 4th Tuesdays at 5 p.m. CST
Sign Up
Mother's Milk Depot Locations: Click here for a list of locations.
Mother's Milk Depot of Monroe County
2016 S. Alabama Avenue
Monroeville, AL 36460
By appointment only
Website
Infirmary Health
Women's Health Alliance of Mobile
1720 Springhill Ave., Suite 400
Mobile, AL 36604
Mon - Fri
9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Southeast Alabama Medical Center
1108 Ross Clark Circle
Dothan, AL 36301
Mon - Fri
8:00 am - 4:30 pm
None
Cornerstone Family Chiropractic
323 Airport Road, Suite E
Auburn, AL 36830
Mon, Wed, Thurs
10:00 am - 1:00 pm
3:00 pm - 6:00 pm
Tue 2:30 pm - 5:30 pm
Fri 7:00 am - 12:00 pm
Website
Mothers' Milk Bank of Alabama
107 Walter Davis Drive
Birmingham, AL 35209
Wed
10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Website
RMC Lactation Services
400 E 10th Street
Anniston, AL 36207
Wed
10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Website
Connections Breastfeeding: The Baby's Room
801 E. Tennessee Street
Florence, AL 35630
Tues - Fri
10:00 am - 5:30 pm
Sat 10:00 am - 4:00 pm
Connections Breastfeeding: A Nurturing Moment
7540 Memorial Pkwy SW, Suite B
Huntsville, AL 35802
Mon - Thur
10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Fri - Sat
10:00 am - 5:00 pm
Website
Connections Breastfeeding: Madison
(Journey Therapeutic Massage)
1874 Slaughter Road, Suite M
Madison, AL 35758
By Appointment Only
Alabama Cribs for Kids
Alabama has partnered with the national Cribs for Kids Program and is dedicated to "Helping every baby sleep safer." Families who meet qualifications and need a safe sleep environment for their infants under one year of agereceive these portable cribs through referrals from partner agencies.
Safe Sleep
The Alabama Collaborative on Safe Sleep (ACSS) under the Alabama Department of Public Health works with numerous stake-holders to promote public awareness to reduce the number of preventable child deaths in Alabama due to sleep-related conditions.
Position Statement- Recommendations from Alabama Collaborative on Safe Sleep:
Recommended Safe Sleep Position:
Recommended Safe Sleep Environment:
The following resources provide critical support for pregnant women in Alabama, ensuring access to safe and stable housing during a vulnerable time.
State and Local Housing Programs
- The Alabama Housing Finance Authority (AHFA)
The Alabama Housing Finance Authority (AHFA) offers affordable housing programs for low-income families and individuals, including pregnant women. Programs include rental assistance, housing vouchers, and homebuyer programs. Learn more.
- Continuum of Care (CoC) Programs in Alabama
CoC programs provide housing and supportive services for homeless individuals, including pregnant women, through transitional housing, rapid rehousing, and emergency shelters. You can find Local CoC Programs using the HUD CoC Finder
- Public Housing and Section 8 Vouchers
Managed by local housing authorities, these programs provide subsidized housing and vouchers for eligible low-income families. Learn More: HUD Alabama Public Housing
Emergency Shelters and Transitional Housing
The Salvation Army – Alabama
The Salvation Army offers emergency shelters and transitional housing for pregnant women and families in crisis.
Find Help: Salvation Army USA
First Light Shelter (Birmingham, AL)
Provides shelter and support for homeless women and children, including pregnant women. Services include case management, counseling, and assistance with permanent housing. Visit: First Light Shelter
Family Sunshine Center (Montgomery, AL)
Supports women, including pregnant women, fleeing domestic violence. Offers emergency housing and referrals to long-term housing programs.
Learn More: Family Sunshine Center
Maternity Homes
Her Choice Birmingham Women’s Center
Offers housing referrals and comprehensive support services for pregnant women, including counseling and prenatal care.
Visit: Her Choice
Agape of Central Alabama
Provides housing and adoption-related support for pregnant women in crisis.
Learn More: Agape of Central Alabama
House of Hope (Decatur, AL)
A residential maternity home offering shelter, counseling, and parenting classes to pregnant women.
Contact: Call (256) 340-5775 for details.
Nonprofit and Community-Based Assistance
YWCA Central Alabama
Offers emergency and transitional housing for women, including those who are pregnant, and survivors of domestic violence.
Visit: YWCA Central Alabama
Catholic Charities of Alabama
Provides housing assistance, case management, and support services for pregnant women and families.
Find Local Help: Catholic Charities USA
Habitat for Humanity of Alabama
Assists low-income families, including pregnant women, in building or purchasing affordable housing.
Visit: Habitat for Humanity Alabama
5. Crisis and Referral Services
211 Connects Alabama
Call 2-1-1 or visit the website to connect with housing resources, shelters, and support programs for pregnant women.
Learn More: 211 Alabama
National Domestic Violence Hotline
For pregnant women fleeing domestic violence, the hotline offers emergency housing referrals. Call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).
Visit: The Hotline
Apply Early: Programs often have long waiting lists, so start the process as soon as possible.
Prepare Documents: Proof of pregnancy, income verification, and ID are often required.
Work with Case Managers: Many programs provide case managers to help navigate available resources.
In Alabama, pregnant women, infants, and young children have access to several food assistance and nutrition education programs. Below are details about these programs and their resources:
1. Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) Program
The WIC Program provides nutritious foods, nutrition education, breastfeeding support, and healthcare referrals to pregnant women, new mothers, infants, and children up to age 5. The program focuses on promoting healthy pregnancies, child growth, and development.
Services Offered:
Monthly vouchers for healthy foods like milk, fruits, vegetables, and cereals.
Breastfeeding counseling and support.
Nutritional and health education.
Eligibility:
Pregnant, postpartum, or breastfeeding women; infants and children up to age 5.
Must meet income guidelines and have a nutritional or health risk.
Find your local WIC office and visit Alabama WIC Program for more information.
Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
SNAP helps eligible low-income individuals and families purchase food. Pregnant women and families with young children can benefit from monthly electronic benefits that can be used at grocery stores.
Services Offered:
Monthly food assistance.
Education on budgeting and healthy meal preparation through SNAP-Ed programs.
Eligibility:
Based on household income and resources.
Find your local SNAP office using the SNAP Office Directory and visit Alabama Department of Human Resources - SNAP for more information.
3. Alabama Food Assistance Programs
The Alabama Food Bank Association (AFBA) works with regional food banks to distribute food to communities in need, including pregnant women and families with infants.
Services Offered:
Emergency food assistance.
Partnerships with local pantries and soup kitchens.
Locate a food bank: Alabama Food Bank Association
4. Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP)
EFNEP provides free nutrition education to low-income families, including pregnant women. The program teaches practical skills such as meal planning, healthy eating, and food safety.
Services Offered:
Group classes and workshops.
Education tailored to the needs of pregnant women and families.
For more information, visit EFNEP Alabama Cooperative Extension
5. Alabama Breastfeeding Peer Counseling Program
This program, part of WIC, offers breastfeeding peer counselors to educate and support pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Services Offered:
One-on-one counseling.
Group breastfeeding classes.
For more Information, visit Alabama Breastfeeding Support.
Alabama offers several mental health initiatives to support pregnant women:
State Perinatal Program:
Managed by the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH), this program aims to reduce infant morbidity and mortality by promoting effective perinatal care. It encourages collaboration among healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive support for pregnant women, including mental health services.
Well Woman Alabama:
An ADPH initiative targeting women aged 15-55, focusing on preconception and interconception care. It emphasizes the importance of mental health during and after pregnancy, offering resources on perinatal depression and anxiety. Well Woman is currently available in the following Alabama counties: Barbour, Bullock, Butler, Covington, Dallas, Henry, Lowndes, Macon, Marengo, Montgomery, Russell, and Wilcox. For more information on Well Woman Alabama, contact Well Woman Nurse Coordinator Katherine Campbell by calling (334) 206-5672 or emailing katherine.campbell@adph.state.al.us.
Every Step Program: This project utilizes the Screening, Brief Intervention, and Referral to Treatment (SBIRT) model to address substance use, depression, and domestic violence among pregnant women or those planning pregnancy. It collaborates with ADPH and the Alabama Department of Mental Health to provide support across the state.
Postpartum Support International – Alabama Chapter (PSI-AL):
Dedicated to raising awareness and providing resources for perinatal mental health issues, PSI-AL offers support programs, educational materials, and connects individuals with trained providers specializing in maternal mental health.
National Maternal Mental Health Hotline
The National Maternal Mental Health Hotline is a critical resource available to pregnant and postpartum women in Alabama and across the United States. This free, confidential, and 24/7 hotline provides support for those experiencing mental health challenges related to pregnancy and motherhood. It offers:
Support Services: Trained counselors provide emotional support, education, and resources tailored to maternal mental health needs.
Crisis Intervention: Immediate assistance for women experiencing severe stress, anxiety, depression, or other mental health crises.
Referrals: Guidance on accessing local mental health services, including therapists, support groups, and community programs.
The hotline number is 1-833-9-HELP4MOMS (1-833-943-5746), and it’s available in both English and Spanish.
Vaccinations for Pregnant Women:
- Influenza (Flu) Vaccine: Pregnant women are advised to receive the inactivated influenza vaccine during flu season, regardless of the trimester. This protects both mother and baby from flu-related complications.
- Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Acellular Pertussis (Tdap) Vaccine: It is recommended that pregnant women receive a Tdap vaccine during each pregnancy, preferably between 27 and 36 weeks of gestation, to protect the newborn from pertussis (whooping cough).
COVID-19 Vaccine: The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that pregnant women receive the COVID-19 vaccine to protect against severe illness. Vaccination during pregnancy can also provide antibodies to the baby.
Vaccinations for Infants:
The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) follows the CDC's immunization schedule for infants, which includes:
- Hepatitis B: Administered shortly after birth, with subsequent doses at 1-2 months and 6-18 months.
- Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Acellular Pertussis (DTaP): Given at 2, 4, and 6 months, with additional doses later in childhood.
- Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib): Administered at 2, 4, and 6 months, depending on the vaccine type.
- Polio (IPV): Given at 2 and 4 months, with additional doses later in childhood.
- Pneumococcal Conjugate (PCV13): Administered at 2, 4, and 6 months.
- Rotavirus: Given at 2 and 4 months, or 2, 4, and 6 months, depending on the vaccine type.
- COVID-19: Infants aged 6 months and older are recommended to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.
These vaccines are typically available through pediatricians, family healthcare providers, and local health departments. The Vaccines for Children (VFC) program in Alabama offers vaccines at no cost to eligible children who might not otherwise be vaccinated due to inability to pay.
For personalized advice and to ensure timely vaccinations, pregnant women and parents in Alabama should consult with their healthcare providers or contact the Alabama Department of Public Health's Immunization Division.
Alabama Newborn Screening Program
In Alabama, the Newborn Screening Program ensures early detection of certain genetic, metabolic, and congenital disorders in infants, facilitating prompt treatment to prevent serious health issues. The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) oversees the Newborn Screening Program, ensuring compliance with state laws and regulations. The Bureau of Clinical Laboratories (BCL) conducts the blood analyses, screening approximately 58,000 babies annually.
The program collaborates with pediatric specialists statewide to ensure infants with abnormal results receive appropriate follow-up care. Additionally, six community-based sickle cell organizations provide counseling and support for children identified with sickle cell disease or trait.
Participation in newborn screening is mandatory for all newborns in Alabama, unless parents object on religious grounds. The cost of newborn screening is $150 per child.
Screening Process:
- First Test: Conducted at the birthing facility when the infant is approximately 2 days old.
- Second Test: Performed at the pediatrician’s office between 2 to 6 weeks of age or at the hospital if the infant has an extended stay.
These tests involve collecting a few drops of blood from the baby's heel, which are then analyzed for various conditions.
Conditions Screened:
Screening involves approximately 35 core and 26 secondary disorders for a total of 61 disorders, including:
- Metabolic Disorders: Such as phenylketonuria (PKU) and medium-chain acyl-CoA dehydrogenase deficiency (MCADD).
- Endocrine Disorders: Including congenital hypothyroidism.
- Hemoglobinopathies: Such as sickle cell anemia.
- Other Genetic Conditions: Including cystic fibrosis and severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID).
A comprehensive list of screened conditions is available through the Health Resources and Services Administration.
The Alabama Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI) Program collaborates with the National Center for Hearing Assessment and Management (NCHAM) to ensure that all infants with hearing loss are identified as early as possible and provided with timely and appropriate audiological, educational, and medical intervention.
For more detailed information or specific inquiries, parents and healthcare providers can contact the Alabama Newborn Screening Program directly at (334) 290-3097 or visit the ADPH Newborn Screening webpage.
Here are some resources and organizations providing perinatal mental health support in Alabama. These organizations can assist with counseling, therapy, support groups, and other services tailored to pregnant and postpartum individuals:
Statewide Resources:
Postpartum Support International (PSI) – Alabama Chapter
Services: Support groups, resources, and helplines for postpartum depression and anxiety.
Helpline: 1-800-944-4773 (Text "HELP" to 800-944-4773).
Alabama Department of Public Health – Maternal Mental Health Programs
Services: Mental health education, referrals, and wellness support for new mothers and families.
Nurture Alabama
Focus: Advocating for maternal and child health, including mental health initiatives.
Counseling and Therapy Providers
Many local mental health centers provide counseling for perinatal mood disorders. For private therapists, use the PSI directory to find a therapist specializing in perinatal mental health in Alabama.
Support Groups:
Many hospitals, clinics, and nonprofits host local support groups. Examples: UAB Women’s Health or community centers in Birmingham and Montgomery. PSI hosts free weekly support groups virtually for mothers experiencing postpartum mental health challenges.
Hotlines and Crisis Support
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Call or text 988 for free, 24/7 emotional support and crisis intervention.
MotherToBaby
Helpline for medication and pregnancy concerns: 1-866-626-6847
