Every Step of Your Pregnancy as a CareFirst CHPMD Member
Pregnancy is a time of big changes. As a CareFirst CHPMD member, you’re not alone. This guide brings everything together—your benefits, programs and local resources—so you can stay healthy, reach key milestones and get tips for every stage, from planning to postpartum care.
Family Planning
Planning for a family is exciting, and we’re here to help you make the most of your Medicaid benefits. Whether you’re thinking about getting pregnant or already expecting, you’ll find resources and support to guide you through this important time.
On this page you'll find:
Planning for a Baby
What to Expect
Trying to have a baby can be an exciting time. You may notice some changes in your body and your daily routine. Here's what to expect:
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Body changes
Your cycle may feel different as you track your period, ovulation and symptoms.
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Fetal development
There is no fetal development yet, but knowing your cycle helps you understand when a pregnancy can begin.
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Common Concern: Preparation
If you’re thinking about getting pregnant, it’s a good idea to meet with a doctor to discuss questions about your health, medications and family history.
Recommended Steps:
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Find the right doctor for your pregnancy journey.
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Visit your doctor to discuss your plans.
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Make sure your medications and supplements are safe for pregnancy.
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Talk about potential risks (BMI, high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes) and create a plan.
Ask your doctor these questions as you plan for pregnancy. They guide you as you learn about your body and the steps that support your health.
When should I stop using birth control?
When am I most likely to get pregnant?
Should I start taking prenatal vitamins now?
Do I need to change any of my medicines?
How does my health affect my chances of getting pregnant?
What changes can I make to help my body get ready?
How does age affect my chances of getting pregnant?
Who can I talk to if I have a concern outside of my appointments?
Extra Help for Your Journey
Renewing Your Medicaid Coverage
You will be informed when it is time for you to renew your Medicaid coverage. Make sure you renew your Medicaid coverage with Maryland Health Connection so you have coverage throughout your entire pregnancy.
How to Sign Up for a Medicaid Plan
Thanks to the Healthy Babies Equity Act (effective July 1, 2023):
If you’re pregnant and live in Maryland, you can get Medicaid—even if you’re not a U.S. citizen. This coverage lasts through your pregnancy and for four months after birth. Medicaid pays for many services, not just pregnancy care.
Follow these steps to enroll or renew your coverage:
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Check your eligibility.
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Apply for Medicaid through Maryland Health Connection.
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Choose a Managed Care Organization (MCO). CareFirst CHPMD is one option.
Pregnancy Care
The Maryland Medicaid Family Planning Program helps reduce low birth weight babies and lowers the risk of death for babies and mothers. It also helps you decide how many children to have and when to have them.
Family planning services include:
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Teen pregnancy prevention
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Reproductive health screenings/exams
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Colposcopy
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Birth control methods
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Sexually transmitted infections (STI) screening and treatment
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Permanent sterilization (must be aged 21 or over)
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Other related education and counseling services
More Free Programs from Maryland
Need More Information?
Review the CareFirst CHPMD Member Handbook (PDF) for a complete outline of services and benefits. English | Spanish
Review the CareFirst CHPMD Benefit Guide (PDF) for more benefit information. English | Spanish
We’re here to support you and keep you informed about all your benefits as a CareFirst CHPMD member. If you have questions or need more information, call Member Services at 410-779-9369 or 800-730-8530 (TTY: 711), Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. ET.