“If things get worse, will you and your baby be safe? Here’s what you need to do NOW.”
The world is unpredictable, and political instability can have real consequences for pregnant people. It can disrupt access to medical care, medications, and even essential resources like food and clean water. If you're expecting, planning ahead isn’t just a good idea—it’s critical for your safety and your baby’s health.
From ensuring you have access to prenatal care to knowing your legal rights in case of a medical emergency, preparation is your best defense against the unknown. Here’s what you need to do now.
Secure Prenatal Care Now
Finding a provider you trust is the first step. Book your prenatal appointments in advance and, if possible, schedule your next few visits now. If hospitals or clinics become overwhelmed or shut down, you’ll be ahead of the curve.
Stock Up on Prenatal Vitamins and Essential Medications
Supply chain disruptions happen fast. If you take prenatal vitamins, blood pressure medications, or insulin for gestational diabetes, ensure you have extra on hand. Ask your provider for a 90-day supply if possible.
Understand Your Local Hospital System
Do you know where you’d go in an emergency? If your regular hospital becomes inaccessible due to protests, roadblocks, or staffing shortages, you need a backup plan. Identify alternative hospitals, birth centers, or providers now.
Have a Birth Plan—But Stay Flexible
A birth plan is essential, but so is adaptability. Political unrest can change hospital policies, shift staffing, or even close maternity wards. Identify a backup location and a secondary support person in case your original plan isn’t possible.
Create a Go-Bag for Emergencies
In unstable times, you might need to leave home suddenly. Pack a bag with:
Copies of your medical records
Emergency contact list
Extra prescriptions
Water and non-perishable snacks
Hygiene essentials (pads, wipes, sanitizer)
A small first-aid kit
If you have to relocate or evacuate, this bag can make all the difference.
Keep Digital and Paper Copies of Your Medical Records
If hospitals or providers shut down or if you have to seek care in a different state, having a record of your medical history is crucial. Keep a hard copy with you and a digital copy saved in a secure, easily accessible place.
Track Key Pregnancy Milestones
Make sure you know when you need critical interventions like:
Your anatomy scan (usually around 20 weeks)
Rhogam injection (if you have Rh-negative blood, given at 28 weeks and again postpartum if your baby is Rh-positive)
Gestational diabetes screening (between 24-28 weeks)
Vaccines (see below)
Signs of preterm labor and when to seek help
If access to care becomes limited, knowing these milestones can help you advocate for yourself.
Get Your Vaccines on Time
Vaccines are an essential part of prenatal care, protecting both you and your baby from serious illnesses. Here’s when to get them:
Tdap (Tetanus, Diphtheria, and Pertussis) – Given between 27-36 weeks to protect your baby from whooping cough.
Flu vaccine – Given any time during flu season (October-March) to prevent severe illness.
COVID-19 vaccine/booster – Given any time during pregnancy to reduce the risk of severe complications.
RSV vaccine (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) – Given between 32-36 weeks to help protect newborns from severe RSV infections after birth.
These vaccines not only safeguard you but also pass vital antibodies to your baby, offering protection after birth.
Understand Your Legal Rights
Some states restrict emergency pregnancy care, including miscarriage management, abortion, and preterm delivery options. Know your rights and where to seek care if you need emergency intervention. Resources like If/When/How’s Repro Legal Helpline can help.
Connect with a Support System
Political instability can feel isolating, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Connect with:
Doulas who can help you advocate for care
Pregnancy advocacy groups that offer guidance
Other pregnant people who can share resources and support
Building a community now will help you if things become more uncertain.
Monitor Political Changes in Your Area
Some laws impact emergency care, Medicaid access, or even travel restrictions for pregnant people. Stay informed about what’s happening in your state. If restrictions tighten, you’ll need a plan in place for where and how you can access care.
You Can’t Control Instability—But You CAN Prepare
The reality is that political upheaval can impact pregnancy care. But with preparation, you can reduce your risks and ensure a safer pregnancy for you and your baby.
📌 Save this list. Share it with a pregnant friend. Preparation is power.