Centering Pregnancy Program
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Centering Pregnancy Program at UCSF Health
The first Centering Pregnancy program was piloted in the early 1990s by Sharon Schindler Rising, a Connecticut nurse-midwife. Now, these programs exist in almost all 50 states at community health centers and hospitals, including UCSF Health.
What is centering pregnancy?
Centering pregnancy facilitates prenatal and postnatal care in a group setting, bringing together parents-to-be with similar due dates.
Groups form between 12 and 16 weeks of pregnancy. You meet regularly throughout pregnancy and after delivery.
What to expect during group sessions
Groups include eight to 12 pregnant people. Support partners are also welcome to join.
At each session, you review your medical history and have a physical exam in a private room with your provider. Then, you join the group to receive in-depth education on pregnancy, labor, delivery and postpartum.
Sessions last two hours and include a break with healthy refreshments. Program facilitators aim to empower and educate you, so you feel confident and prepared to welcome your baby.
Topics covered include:
Pregnancy symptoms and discomforts
Nutrition
Self-care and stress management
Labor and delivery
Breastfeeding
Infant care
Benefits of group maternity care
Many participants in the Centering Pregnancy Program find lasting friendships, community and support within the group. The program also promotes:
Better birth outcomes
More provider and patient contact
Empowerment and learning
Self-care
Centering Pregnancy Program at UCSF Health
The first Centering Pregnancy program was piloted in the early 1990s by Sharon Schindler Rising, a Connecticut nurse-midwife. Now, these programs exist in almost all 50 states at community health centers and hospitals, including UCSF Health.
What is centering pregnancy?
Centering pregnancy facilitates prenatal and postnatal care in a group setting, bringing together parents-to-be with similar due dates.
Groups form between 12 and 16 weeks of pregnancy. You meet regularly throughout pregnancy and after delivery.
What to expect during group sessions
Groups include eight to 12 pregnant people. Support partners are also welcome to join.
At each session, you review your medical history and have a physical exam in a private room with your provider. Then, you join the group to receive in-depth education on pregnancy, labor, delivery and postpartum.
Sessions last two hours and include a break with healthy refreshments. Program facilitators aim to empower and educate you, so you feel confident and prepared to welcome your baby.
Topics covered include:
Pregnancy symptoms and discomforts
Nutrition
Self-care and stress management
Labor and delivery
Breastfeeding
Infant care
Benefits of group maternity care
Many participants in the Centering Pregnancy Program find lasting friendships, community and support within the group. The program also promotes:
Better birth outcomes
More provider and patient contact
Empowerment and learning
Self-care
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Recognized excellence
Rated high-performing for maternity care – uncomplicated pregnancy by U.S. News & World Report
One of the nation’s best for obstetrics & gynecology
Excellence in supporting breastfeeding
Related conditions & treatments
Conditions
Treatments
- Breastfeeding Support
- Diet and Nutrition
- Labor and Delivery
- Postpartum Care
The UCSF Centering Pregnancy Experience
Support services
Great Expectations Pregnancy Classes
Get ready for the baby! Choose from a variety of classes that prepare moms and partners for pregnancy, birth, baby care, breastfeeding and parenting.
Lactation Consultant Support
Get support for all your breastfeeding needs. Troubleshoot with a lactation consultant, find equipment and supplies, join a support group and more.
Women's Health Resource Center
Access free health resources here, from classes and webinars to support groups and medical referrals, plus pregnancy, birth and breastfeeding services.