New maternal health program strengthens preparedness, well-being

Nutrition and Health, Story 1890, 2026, Central State University, Child and Family Resilience, Human Nutrition/Health/Wellness, Ohio, Public Health

Many pregnant women face preventable complications, inadequate postpartum education and challenges with self-advocacy during medical appointments. According to CDC data, Ohio’s maternal mortality rate average between 2018 and 2022 was higher than the U.S. average, at 24.5 per 100,000. Ohio also struggles with a 10.7% preterm birth rate — graded a D+ nationally. These statistics reflect systemic gaps in maternal care, prevention and support, underscoring the urgent need for community-centered interventions. These challenges place women at greater risk during pregnancy, birth and recovery.

To address these challenges, Central State University Extension’s Family and Consumer Sciences educators launched the “She, Me and Her” maternal health program to implement a holistic, relationship-based care model tailored to the needs of mothers affected by gaps in the healthcare system. The program included:

On-site and online doula visits, providing emotional and physical support, birthing tools and wellness resources and coaching to strengthen self-advocacy
Infant supplies and cookbooks
Ongoing monthly postpartum check-ins to support recovery and help navigate medical systems with confidence
Certified dietitian meetings to provide nutrition guidance tailored to the individual
Option to enroll in additional one-on-one virtual lessons covering healthy and budget-friendly cooking
Monthly “Ask the Doula” events to increase maternal health awareness

Partnerships with local agencies improved referral pathways and broadened connections to essential maternal health resources.

Since its launch, the program has supported four mothers, with seven more expressing interest, and has celebrated two healthy births in August and October 2025. Two additional clients are due in early 2026. Client feedback demonstrates a high level of satisfaction in birth and postpartum planning, improved physical and emotional well-being, and professionalism and respect from staff. Mothers shared that in-person and online support made the program especially practical.

Stronger maternal outcomes translate to healthier infants, reduced emergency and long-term healthcare costs, and more stable families — all of which benefit local communities and public health systems. 

View the full statement on the NIDB.

Central State University – Extension | Project supported by 1890 Extension capacity funds.