A new nationwide report is raising alarms over declining prenatal care in the United States, revealing that millions of pregnant women are not receiving medical attention early enough in their pregnancies. The latest findings from the March of Dimes show the country is experiencing a worsening maternal health crisis, with significant gaps in early checkups and rising risks for mothers and babies.
The report highlights that more than 1 in 10 U.S. women receive late or no prenatal care at all. That figure has been climbing for several years and now sits at its highest point in more than a decade. Early prenatal care is critical because it allows healthcare providers to detect complications, track fetal development, and reduce risks linked to high blood pressure, diabetes, and premature birth.
According to researchers, access barriers continue to play a powerful role. Many pregnant women struggle with transportation, lack of insurance, high medical costs, and limited availability of maternity services. Rural areas have been hit particularly hard as hospitals continue shutting down labor and delivery units, forcing pregnant patients to travel long distances just to receive basic care. Some mothers report driving hours just to secure an appointment.
The report also shows stark racial and economic disparities. Black, Native American, and Hispanic women remain significantly more likely to receive delayed or inadequate prenatal care. Experts say these gaps reflect a combination of systemic bias, financial challenges, and limited access to culturally aligned medical providers. Women living in low-income communities are similarly affected, often facing long wait times and fewer nearby clinics.
Maternal health advocates warn that declining access to early care contributes to the United States’ unusually high rates of preterm birth. Preterm deliveries are a leading cause of infant death and can result in lifelong complications for children who survive. The March of Dimes report estimates that premature births cost the healthcare system tens of billions of dollars each year through prolonged neonatal care and long-term medical needs.
The findings come at a time when the nation is facing critical staffing shortages among obstetricians, midwives, and nurses. Many clinicians report burnout and increased workloads, making it harder for pregnant patients to secure timely appointments. Telehealth services expanded during the pandemic helped bridge some gaps, but many rural households lack reliable internet access to make full use of virtual prenatal care.
The March of Dimes is calling for immediate nationwide action. Without improved access to early prenatal visits, public health officials warn that maternal and infant health outcomes could continue to deteriorate. For millions of families, timely care could make the difference between a healthy birth and preventable complications.
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