Pregnancy and the first year of a child’s life are a unique time in a family’s journey. Our Prenatal and Early Infancy Initiatives direct research and resources towards ensuring optimum outcomes for parents and their children during this first year.
Prenatal and Early Infancy Initiatives study the incidence of pregnancy complications, and make recommendations to improve maternal outcomes and prevent death. In collaboration with UMass Medical School, The New England Newborn Screening Program helps prevent treatable disorders through early detection. DPH serves on the Ellen Story Commission on Postpartum Depression; the Commission assists MDPH in developing educational materials, referral lists and designation of validated screening tools.
