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Our Services
Our Maternal Health Care System is Broken
Our maternal health care system is failing the very women who need it most, and it's time we face that reality. One focus area of maternal health support is maternal mental health and it is absolutely vital—not just for the well-being of mothers, but for the healthy development of their children. Yet, countless women, especially in underserved communities, are left without the care they should receive.
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The inequalities in maternal health are glaring, and the fact that this happens in the first place is a massive failure of the system. Mothers in minority and low-income communities face barriers at every turn, from limited access to health services to deeply rooted cultural stigmas around mental health. These gaps don't just leave women behind—they ripple out, affecting families and entire communities.
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There is hope. By shedding light on these issues, raising awareness, and pushing for better support systems, we can start to fix what's broken. Because every mother deserves to thrive, and when moms are healthy, so are their babies, families, and communities. Let's come together to build a system where no mother and child are left behind!
The Challenge
There are several significant barriers standing in the way of equitable maternal health care, especially for underserved communities. These obstacles prevent many mothers from getting the support they need during one of the most vulnerable times in their lives.
Access To Care
Geographic and financial limitations are two of the biggest hurdles. In many areas, especially rural or low-income communities, maternal health services are scarce, forcing mothers to travel long distances or go without care altogether. Even when services are available, the cost of care can be prohibitive, particularly for those without adequate insurance coverage.
Culturally Competent Care
Even when maternal health care is accessible, it may not always be effective. A lack of understanding among providers about cultural differences can cause miscommunication or inadequate treatment. Without culturally competent care, many mothers feel misunderstood or overlooked, further discouraging them from seeking the support they need. Due to the lack of culturally competent care, mental health is often a taboo subject in minority communities. Mothers may feel that discussing their maternal mental health struggles is inappropriate, which is compounded by the distrust some communities have toward healthcare providers.
Cultural Stigma
Societal perceptions and fears surrounding maternal health create another layer of difficulty. Many women, especially in minority communities, are reluctant to seek help because of the stigma attached to maternal health struggles. Some examples include:
Perception of Weakness
​Maternal health struggles are often viewed as a sign of personal weakness or failure, especially in cultures that emphasize strength and resilience.
Cultural Expectation to Endure Struggles
In some cultures, women are expected to endure hardships, including maternal health challenges, without complaint. There may be a belief that motherhood naturally comes with struggle, and asking for help could be perceived as weak indulgence.
Fear of Judgment
Many women fear being judged by their families, friends, or communities for experiencing postpartum depression or anxiety when there is pressure to conform to expectations of motherhood.
Pressure to be "Supermom"
In some minority cultures, there is intense pressure to be the perfect mother—always strong, always nurturing, and always in control. Admitting to maternal health struggles can feel like a betrayal of this ideal, causing mothers to hide their pain and refuse help.
Impact on Families
The effects of maternal health issues extend far beyond the mother, deeply impacting her child and the broader community. When a mother experiences conditions like postpartum depression or anxiety, she often feels isolated, overwhelmed, and unable to fully engage with her child, affecting her ability to provide emotional support during critical developmental stages. This can lead to developmental delays, emotional challenges, and long-term behavioral issues for the child.
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The ripple effects are felt across the community. Families may experience strained relationships, while the economic burden of untreated maternal health issues—such as lost productivity and healthcare costs—affects society as a whole. Minority communities, already facing barriers to care, are disproportionately affected, leading to cycles of hardship. Addressing maternal health issues not only improves outcomes for mothers and their children but also strengthens entire families and their community.
Advocacy & Change
Raising awareness about maternal health is about more than just spreading information—it's about letting mothers know they're not alone and that their well-being matters. By talking openly about the challenges women face, we can break down the stigma and create a world where every mother feels seen, heard, and supported during one of the most important times in her life.
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Equitable care is a necessity, not a luxury. Advocating for fair and compassionate mental health services ensures that all mothers, no matter their background or circumstances, have access to proper care. It’s about making sure every mom gets the help she needs to be the best version of herself, for both her and her child.
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Together, through advocacy and support, we can create stronger, healthier communities where every mother and child have the chance to thrive.
Houston communities have made strides in supporting maternal health through various successful initiatives and community efforts. These programs focus on addressing the unique challenges faced by mothers, especially those from underserved and minority communities.
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Texas Children's Pavilion for Women—Mental Health Program
Overview: Texas Children's Hospital offers a comprehensive maternal mental health program that focuses on screening, diagnosis, and treatment of postpartum depression and anxiety. Their mental health services include both individual therapy and group sessions for mothers experiencing perinatal mood disorders.
Success: The program has provided invaluable support to countless mothers, helping them navigate the emotional challenges of motherhood with specialized care and treatment.
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The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD—Maternal Mental Health Resources
Overview: The Harris Center focuses on providing mental health services to underserved communities. Their maternal mental health resources include counseling services and outreach programs that raise awareness about the importance of mental health during pregnancy and the postpartum period.
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Success: This initiative has expanded access to care, particularly for women from lower-income backgrounds who may face barriers to accessing mental health services.
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Postpartum Support International (PSI)—Houston Chapter
Overview: PSI offers peer support groups, educational workshops, and online resources to Houston-area mothers dealing with postpartum depression and anxiety. They connect mothers to local therapists and counselors trained in maternal mental health.
Success: PSI Houston has created a strong network of support for mothers, offering both online and in-person resources that have made mental health care more accessible.
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University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth)—Maternal Mental Health Projects
Overview: UTHealth has launched research-based initiatives to improve maternal mental health care. Their efforts focus on identifying the barriers to accessing care, especially among minority women, and developing interventions that reduce the risk of postpartum depression and anxiety.
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Success: The findings from UT Health's research have informed new policies and approaches to maternal mental health, affecting both local practices and broader state health programs.
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The Houston Doula Cooperative—Postpartum Care and Mental Health Awareness
Overview: The Houston Doula Cooperative offers emotional and physical support to mothers during and after childbirth. Their postpartum doulas are trained to recognize the signs of postpartum depression and anxiety and refer mothers to mental health services when necessary.
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Success: By integrating mental health awareness into their care model, the cooperative has helped mothers in Houston feel supported during their postpartum journey, reducing feelings of isolation and anxiety.
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Maternal Mental Health Awareness Events and Workshops
Overview: Various community organizations in Houston, such as the Montrose Center and Healthy Women Houston, have hosted maternal mental health awareness events and workshops aimed at educating both healthcare providers and the public about the importance of maternal well-being.
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Success: These events have helped break the stigma around maternal mental health and provided valuable resources to mothers and their families.
These initiatives reflect Houston's commitment to maternal mental health, providing support services that empower mothers and build stronger communities. Through continued collaboration, advocacy, and outreach, Houston is working to ensure that every mother has access to the mental health care she deserves.
Maternal health support touches us all, and we each have the power to make a difference. Whether through raising awareness, offering your time, or supporting organizations dedicated to helping moms, your involvement can change lives.
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Advocate for policies, speak openly about maternal well-being, attend community events, or share helpful resources on social media—because every action, big or small, makes a difference.
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When we come together, we create a world where no mother feels alone, where every mom is supported, and where every family thrives. Your support, no matter how you give it, can uplift mothers, strengthen relationships, and leave a lasting legacy of love and care.
Volunteer Opportunities
Postpartum Support International (PSI)—Texas Chapter
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Role: Volunteer to facilitate or co-lead local support groups for mothers dealing with postpartum depression or anxiety or help with outreach and awareness efforts
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Impact: Provide emotional support and guidance to moms in need
Texas Children’s Hospital—Volunteer Services
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Role: Serve as a hospital volunteer, providing emotional support to mothers and families in maternal health units or neonatal care
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Impact: Help moms feel supported while their babies receive care
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Website: Texas Children’s Hospital Volunteers
The Harris Center for Mental Health and IDD
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Role: Volunteer with maternal mental health programs, helping to connect mothers with resources and services
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Impact: Help provide access to mental health care and community services
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Website: The Harris Center
The Montrose Center—LGBTQ+ Family Programs
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Role: Volunteer to support LGBTQ+ mothers and families with maternal mental health needs, parenting workshops, and emotional support
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Impact: Ensure inclusivity in maternal health support services
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Website: Montrose Center
By volunteering with these organizations, you can play a crucial role in supporting maternal health and helping moms in Houston feel seen, heard, and cared for.
Resources
Types of Support Services
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Prenatal Care Clinics: Regular check-ups and medical care during pregnancy.
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Maternal Mental Health Counseling: Specialized therapy for anxiety, depression, and emotional well-being during and after pregnancy.
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Lactation Consultants: Professional guidance on breastfeeding techniques and challenges.
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Doula Services: Emotional and physical support before, during, and after birth.
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Peer Support Groups: Safe spaces for expecting mothers to connect, share experiences, and receive emotional support.
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Childbirth Education Classes: Classes on labor, delivery, and postpartum recovery.
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Postpartum Support Networks: Services that provide continued care and support after the baby arrives.
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Nutrition Counseling: Personalized dietary guidance for expecting mothers.
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Midwife Services: Personalized, holistic prenatal and birthing care.
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Home Visiting Programs: Professionals offering postpartum support and infant care guidance in the comfort of your home.
Educational Materials
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Books: "What to Expect When You're Expecting" and "Good Moms Have Scary Thoughts", Mama, You Are Enough
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Podcasts: “The Birth Hour,” “The Longest Shortest Time,” and “Motherhood Sessions.”
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Websites: March of Dimes, Find Help, American Pregnancy Association, and Maternal Mental Health Leadership Alliance, Black Mamas Matter Alliance (BMMA), Better Help
​These services and resources can help mothers feel empowered and supported throughout their journey.