Policy Hub

Postpartum policy, translated. Written for mothers first, and useful for advocates, healthcare leaders, and policymakers.

• Medicaid postpartum coverage

  12-month extension adopted in most states

  Federal law lets states extend postpartum Medicaid from 60 days to 12 months after birth. Coverage includes postpartum visits, behavioral health care, and prescriptions.

  Why it matters: Medicaid pays for roughly four in ten US births, and many pregnancy-related deaths happen after the traditional 60-day cutoff.

  What you can do: Check your state's postpartum coverage window before your 60th day after birth.

• Paid family and medical leave

  State programs in a minority of states; no federal paid program

  Some states run paid family leave insurance funded through payroll contributions. Elsewhere, unpaid FMLA job protection may apply if you meet employer and tenure requirements.

  Why it matters: Time to recover and bond is directly tied to breastfeeding duration, maternal mental health, and financial stability.

  What you can do: Ask your employer's HR team, in writing, which leave programs you qualify for.

• Doula reimbursement

  Growing number of state Medicaid programs

  States are adding doula services as a covered Medicaid benefit, typically including prenatal visits, birth support, and postpartum follow-up.

  Why it matters: Doula support is associated with fewer interventions, better birth experiences, and stronger postpartum follow-through.

  What you can do: Ask your Medicaid plan whether doula visits are covered in your state.

• Maternal health legislation and review committees

  Maternal Mortality Review Committees active in most states

  State committees review pregnancy-related deaths and publish recommendations, and legislatures consider bills on screening, coverage, and workforce.

  Why it matters: Most pregnancy-related deaths are considered preventable, and review findings show where postpartum support gaps sit.

  What you can do: Read your state committee's most recent report before advocacy meetings.

Policy changes frequently and varies by state. Always confirm current rules with your state agency or health plan before making decisions about coverage.