More time with your care provider, supportive friendships, and guidance every step of the way—see how CenteringPregnancy is changing prenatal care at the Maternal Care Center at Shady Grove Medical Center.
Pregnancy is exciting, but it can also feel overwhelming. The team at the Maternal Care Center at Shady Grove Medical Center wants every mom-to-be to feel supported, confident and informed. That’s why they are introducing CenteringPregnancy, a fresh approach to prenatal care in which expecting moms share their journeys.
How CenteringPregnancy Works
CenteringPregnancy brings eight to 10 women with similar due dates together for their appointments. Instead of brief individual checkups, moms are brought directly into a group setting, making the most of time with a certified Nurse midwife and Obstetrician. Each session lasts 90 minutes to two hours, giving moms time to learn, connect, and actively participate in their care.
During visits, moms partner with the Maternal Care Center’s team to track and understand key numbers such as weight and blood pressure, learning what these measurements mean for their health. After each mom has a private check-in for a belly exam, the group “circles up” with the provider and support team to explore important topics such as nutrition, stress management, labor and delivery, breastfeeding, and newborn care. Discussions are interactive, with room to talk about what matters most to the group.
Who Is CenteringPregnancy For?
The program is designed for any expectant mom who wants to take an active role in her care, learn from her provider and connect with other women experiencing the same journey. First-time moms or those seeking extra support and guidance can especially benefit from the group setting.
Connection, Community, and Friendship
CenteringPregnancy isn’t just about medical care—it’s about connection. Moms meet other women going through the same experience and often form friendships that last well beyond pregnancy. Sharing experiences allows moms to learn from each other, ask questions, and feel supported every step of the way.
This connection is at the heart of the program. “CenteringPregnancy is transforming how we care for moms,” says Camie Bruhweiler, RN, manager of the Maternal Care Center at Shady Grove. “It’s about building relationships, empowering women to understand their own health, and creating a community where every mom feels seen and supported. We can’t wait to welcome our first groups.”
Health and Confidence Benefits
Research published in the American Journal of Public Health found that women participating in CenteringPregnancy were 33% less likely to have a preterm birth compared with those receiving traditional prenatal care. Programs using this model have also reported fewer NICU admissions, supporting healthier outcomes for both moms and babies.
Other benefits can include:
- Healthier babies: The same research found CenteringPregnancy helped significantly reduce racial disparities in preterm birth.
- Self-care and confidence: Moms take ownership of their health and feel prepared for labor, delivery and newborn care.
- Fewer emergencies: A better understanding of what’s normal reduces unnecessary after-hours calls and emergency visits.
- Support and friendship: Sharing experiences creates lasting relationships and a strong support system.
- Learning and fun: Moms actively engage in discussions, making information easier to understand and remember.
A New Approach to Prenatal Care
The Maternal Care Center believes prenatal care should be more than just appointments. It should be a journey that prepares, informs and connects moms for life. CenteringPregnancy is a program designed to create a community where every mom feels confident, supported and empowered.
Interested in joining a group or learning more? Contact the Maternal Care Center at Shady Grove
