EMBRACE PRENATAL CARE STUDY
Embracing Mothers & Babies; Reimagining Antenatal Care for Everyone
The EMBRACE Prenatal Care Study compared two types of enhanced prenatal care
to discover which may lead to better outcomes for women and infants. Antenatal care is medical care received during pregnancy, also called prenatal care.
THE STUDY
Comparing Enhanced Prenatal Care Models
Participants in EMBRACE were assigned to receive prenatal care either individually or in a group setting based on their due date and provider. The study compared maternal mental health, perceptions of patient-centered care, and preterm birth rates in these two study populations.
Throughout their time in the study, participants completed three questionnaires and shared delivery medical records. Participation in the study began in the first trimester of pregnancy and ended at three months postpartum when the final survey was completed.
The study results will enable patients and providers to make informed decisions about which enhanced model of prenatal care may be best for them.
RESEARCH QUESTIONS
EMBRACE sought to answer three questions.
Does participating in group prenatal care lead to:
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less depression and anxiety symptoms?
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increased satisfaction with care?
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reduced preterm birth rates?
The Study also explored in-depth experiences of care with Black and Latina women through interviews.