Ankara: About a quarter of pregnant women in the US do not receive prenatal care during the first trimester, according to a report published Monday. The report, released by the infant and maternal health nonprofit March of Dimes, highlights a concerning trend in the United States regarding delayed prenatal care.

According to Anadolu Agency, the report emphasizes that initiating prenatal care after the first trimester is becoming more common in the US. Michael Warren, the March of Dimes' chief medical and health officer, pointed out that while risk factors for preterm birth, such as prior preterm births, chronic diseases, and unequal access to care, have been recognized for years, the delay in starting prenatal care is particularly troubling.

Starting prenatal care early is vital as it allows the most time to address the health needs of pregnant women. This includes managing chronic conditions and identifying potential risks to ensure better health outcomes for both the mother and the baby.

The report identifies several systemic barriers that prevent women from accessing timely prenatal care in the US. One significant issue is the presence of 'maternity care deserts' - regions lacking adequate maternal health services. Over a third of US counties are without obstetricians, family physicians, or certified nurse-midwives, and they also lack hospital birthing facilities or centers, exacerbating the problem.

Warren noted that the stagnant national rate of early prenatal care and the widening disparities underscore the urgent need for increased research, expanded access to maternity care, and the implementation of policies designed to better protect mothers and infants.