Community Health Workers (CHWs) support pregnant clients, especially those who may be lacking certain resources, in many ways:
- Helping with Healthcare: CHWs help clients find doctors, make appointments, and get to their doctor’s visits.
- Teaching Important Information: CHWs give information on healthy eating, exercise, and how to take care of yourself and your baby. They also promote breastfeeding and safe sleep.
- Emotional Support: CHWs listen to pregnant clients and give them emotional support. They also help clients who might feel anxious or sad during pregnancy get connected to various support systems.
- Cultural Support: CHWs understand the community’s culture and can explain medical information in a way that makes sense to each person, especially if there’s a language barrier.
- Connecting to Resources: CHWs help clients get food, housing, and other support they need. They can also help clients see specialists if there are health problems during pregnancy.
- Advocacy: CHWs make sure clients know their rights and help them speak up in the doctor’s office.
- Checking Health: CHWs check on how the pregnancy is going, help with postpartum care, and make sure moms are healthy after having their babies.
- Building Trust: CHWs form a trusting relationship with pregnant clients, giving them the confidence to make good choices for themselves and their babies.
Overall, CHWs make sure pregnant clients have the help they need to stay healthy and feel supported throughout their pregnancy.