For Healthier Mothers and Babies in California, Start with Safety: Strategies to Address and Prevent Intimate Partner Violence

California policymakers and programs have implemented many recent initiatives to address maternal mortality, decrease disparities, and improve birth outcomes in the state. However, integrating IPV prevention and intervention services into these initiatives is essential to fully address the root causes of high maternal mortality rates. This policy brief highlights evidence-informed strategies and opportunities to integrate IPV services into maternal health care and capitalize on the opportunities presented by recent maternal health initiatives. This brief presents recommendations for preventing and addressing IPV (1) during pregnancy, (2) through postpartum care, and (3) through perinatal care delivered by doulas. State Medicaid agencies, public health departments, managed care plans, health care providers, care coordinators, hospitals, and policymakers can pursue the recommendations through the strategies articulated in the brief.