Pregnancy and Parenting Care and Support
CenteringPregnancy® and CenteringParenting® programs are evidence-based models of prenatal and postpartum care designed to bring patients out of typical office exam rooms and into a comfortable group setting. A healthcare provider facilitates the one-to-one health assessment with each participant followed by pregnancy and parenting education and group discussion sessions. Six to 12 pregnant and/or parenting people gather to support each other and engage in fun activities. Summa Health offers a variety of in-person and virtual groups in the greater Akron area.
Group Prenatal and Postpartum Care—Designed for You
Centering programs are designed to combine a prenatal, postpartum or child wellness visit with education and group discussions. Summa Health has been providing this model of care for nearly a decade and has pioneered adopting this model of care for different populations. Individuals who are pregnant, new parents and parents using surrogacy or adoption services are welcome. Benefits include:
- Additional time with your provider
- Improved maternal and newborn outcomes
- Increased socialization and peer support
- Coordinated care to address your unique needs
- Wraparound services and connection to resources
How the Programs Work
All Centering groups are 90 minutes to two hours in length. Sessions include the health assessment by the provider, education, activities and a learning moment with patient-led discussion. Centering care teams include:
- Healthcare provider
- Community health worker
- Social worker
- Nurse case manager
Discussion and education topics include nutrition, breast/chest-feeding, self-care, family planning, exercise, postpartum depression and more. Participants are encouraged to ask questions and guide the discussions to address their interests and concerns.
Thrive CenteringPregnancy Group
Pregnant people impacted by any substance or opiate use disorder are invited to join a safe, confidential space to receive prenatal care. Medication and MAT (Buprenorphine) are available for participants who need this form of care. Group education and discussion topics include pregnancy, birthing and substance use disorders, located at:
Women's Health Center
75 Arch St, Ste B-3
Akron, OH 44304
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Thrive CenteringPregnancy® and CenteringParenting® Programs
Care Stories - Mariah Hunt
Mother finds empowerment and support through Centering Parenting Program