More than 400 families have participated in CenteringPregnancy at Mid Coast Hospital since its inception. On Sunday, May 15, past and current participants joined together at Winslow Park in Freeport to celebrate this model of maternity care.

“The Centering reunion is a special time for us to pause and celebrate the success of CenteringPregnancy at Mid Coast,” said Suzanne Zimmerman, CNM. “This model of care creates a natural bond between participants that offers a tremendous amount of support before, during, and far beyond birth. Seeing these families together again reminds us of the overall impact that these groups have on creating a healthy beginning for each baby.”

CenteringPregnancy at Mid Coast is coordinated by a program facilitator and led by the midwifery practice within Mid Coast Medical Group–Women’s Health Care.

It is a model of group prenatal care that integrates basic prenatal health assessment and education with social support, allowing women with similar “due months” to meet in a group setting.

The results provide better preparation for labor, birth, and infant care, as well as creating community, resources, and support. Clinically, this model of pregnancy care has shown a decrease in cesarean section rates and the occurrence of premature births.

When asked about their experiences, Centering- Pregnancy participants said, “It was nice to be in a group setting because you don’t feel alone,” and “It’s great to hear other questions that you may not have thought of and gain the sense of community and support.”

Another recent mother commented, “I don’t know how I could have delivered my child the way I did without the loving kindness and expertise of the Midwives at Mid Coast Hospital. They truly hold a special place in our hearts.”

The Mid Coast Medical Group-Women’s Health Care team includes six board certified OB/GYN physicians and five certified nurse midwives, collaborating to offer a full range of maternity care options to meet the needs of all families. In Fall 2015, the practice became the first in Maine to achieve CenteringPregnancy certification by the Centering Healthcare Institute in Boston, MA.

“With a focus on patient satisfaction, Mid Coast offers women and families a host of options for care before, during, and after birth,” said Kristin Sims, RNC, MSN, NEA-BC, Vice President for Nursing and Patient Care Services at Mid Coast–Parkview Health. “Whether choosing a physician, a midwife, individual, or group prenatal care, we are dedicated to supporting each families’ decisions and ensuring the healthiest start for all.”

For more information and to take a tour of Mid Coast Hospital Maternity visit midcoasthealth.com or call (207) 373-6500.