CenteringPregnancy at Reid encourages mother’s confidence while building a supportive community

Angel Reynolds-Ewry of New Paris, Ohio, found strength and confidence in a supportive community of mothers. Through the CenteringPregnancy^® program at Reid OB/GYN, she discovered a unique approach to prenatal care that fosters empowerment, education, and lasting connections.

This was Reynolds-Ewry's first experience with CenteringPregnancy and her first pregnancy with Reid OB/GYN. Her initial intake appointment was held in the group space and she continued with the program for the remainder of her pregnancy.

Developed by the Centering^® Healthcare Institute, CenteringPregnancy brings expectant mothers together during the same 10-visit schedule, combining prenatal care with group support to enhance their experience, knowledge, and well-being.

Unlike traditional prenatal visits, small groups of women with similar due dates are brought together so they can learn from each other along with their provider by asking questions, sharing experiences, and building support for one another.

During each session, with the oversight of a provider, women take an active role in their care by taking their own blood pressure and weighing themselves. They also have more focused one-on-one interaction with a care provider, allowing for more time to ask questions and discuss their health.

"I loved Centering versus normal OB appointments," Reynolds-Ewry said.

"I honestly enjoyed every session. Participating helped build my confidence as a third-time mother by allowing me to share my own insights and advice with first-time moms in the group. At the same time, I learned so much from them and from the program itself, lessons I apply in my daily life now."

The program's consistency was another benefit. Group appointments are held at the same frequency as routine prenatal appointments. As a working mother, she appreciated knowing when the appointments would be for her entire pregnancy from the beginning, continuity with the same provider, and meeting with the same group of women at every session.

"I knew what to expect and I was always happy to see friends," Reynolds-Ewry said.

CenteringPregnancy is about more than medical care. It's a great way for women to be empowered by taking an active role in their care, increasing their knowledge, and building a support system.

Reynolds-Ewry's advice to expectant mothers is to give CenteringPregnancy a chance.

"Especially if you're someone without a huge support system, join CenteringPregnancy and you'll always find support there."

Reid Health offers CenteringPregnancy in Richmond and Connersville.

For more information on CenteringPregnancy at Reid Health, visit reidhealth.org/centering-pregnancy.