Pacify and March of Dimes partnering to address the maternal and infant health crisis

Dear Stakeholders,

The 2023 March of Dimes Report Card highlights the deteriorating maternal and infant health crisis in the United States. The report reveals a 3% increase in infant mortality, the first increase in over two decades, and a near doubling of maternal mortality rates in the last two years, rising from 17.4 to 32.9 deaths per 100,000 live births. Preterm births have remained stubbornly high at approximately 10.4%. These statistics are the reasons we continue to do the work we do.

Pacify's virtual care solution using doulas and lactation consultants has demonstrated positive outcomes, with studies showing that participants are more likely to attend prenatal visits, receive postpartum care, exclusively breastfeed, and experience reduced emergency department visits and hospital readmissions.

This partnership between Pacify and the March of Dimes is a step forward in improving maternal and infant health, but there is still much work to be done. Pacify remains committed in its mission to expand access to healthcare services across the United States, prioritizing those in greatest need.

When it comes to questions about your baby, parents need answers fast

Case managers and hospital staff provide crucial support for parents. But infant issues rarely happen from 9-5. And when parents at risk of losing their milk supply have nowhwere else to go for help, they end up in the ER.

With Pacify, families get the help they need, wherever they are, whenever they need it.

Question to a lactation consultant:

Q: "How long do I really need to breastfeed for?"

A: The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of a baby's life. After six months, breastfeeding should continue alongside the introduction of solid foods, ideally for two years or more. While the benefits of breastfeeding are well-known, not everyone can or chooses to breastfeed for an extended period. To maximize your chances of breastfeeding, it's crucial to seek lactation support whenever you have questions or concerns. Remember, breastfeeding can be challenging initially, but it often becomes easier, especially once solid foods are introduced. Instead of focusing on long-term goals, take it one day at a time and celebrate every drop of breast milk you provide no matter how long you decide to breastfeed.

Question to a doula:

Q: "Why do I need a doula?"

A: A doula can help you understand what your options are during pregnancy and childbirth. They act as your advocate and can support both you and your birth partner during the process. A doula helps empower you to make informed decisions and have a more satisfying birth experience. Did you know that doulas are shown to decrease the use of medications during labor and cesarean birth? You can read more here about the benefits of having a doula.

Q: "What if I need help after my baby is born?"

A: A postpartum doula provides non-medical care and support to families after childbirth. They can help with emotional support, recovery from childbirth, infant care and feeding, coping skills for new parents, household organization, partner and family support, advocacy and referrals to resources. Pacify offers on-demand birth and postpartum doula services through the Pacify app. Did you know that doulas are shown to decrease the rates of postpartum depression and anxiety? You can read more here about the benefits of working with a postpartum doula.

Pacify and March of Dimes are partnering to address the maternal and infant health crisis

A partnership that makes sense.

Because babies don't respect business hours

When it comes to questions about your baby, parents need answers fast

Ask Pacify

Question to a lactation consultant:

Question to a doula:

Are you interested in bringing Pacify to your community?