Navigating Motherhood with Confidence and Care: Legacy Supports Latina Moms

Legacy Community Health Supports Moms Every Step of the Way

Becoming a mother is a journey filled with joy, questions, and moments of uncertainty. That’s why programs like Prenatal Navigation at Legacy Community Health are such a vital resource—especially for women in underserved communities.

From the moment a pregnancy is confirmed to the first days of caring for a newborn, Legacy’s Prenatal Navigation team is there to guide, support, and empower mothers at every step.

In many Latino households, motherhood is a shared journey—shaped by the wisdom of abuelas, tías and older sisters. Legacy honors these traditions by offering culturally respectful care, while also providing the medical guidance and education that today’s mothers need to thrive.

A Holistic Approach to Prenatal Care

Legacy’s Prenatal Navigation program offers far more than point of care testing —it’s a comprehensive support system designed to care for both mother and baby. Expecting mothers receive guidance on everything from birth planning and prenatal visits to postpartum care and pediatric follow-ups. The goal is simple: to make sure every mother feels informed, supported, and prepared for a healthy pregnancy and a strong start for her child.

“We offer prenatal education classes, both virtual and in-person,” said Alejandra Zuniga, Prenatal Navigation Manager at Legacy Community Health. “Topics include prenatal care, what to expect during doctor visits, how to prepare for pregnancy, nutrition, labor, and how to navigate the weeks after the baby is born.”

In many Latino households, pregnancy is a community experience—filled with consejos from abuelas and tías. Legacy blends cultural respect with expert medical support to meet the needs of today’s mothers.

In addition to education and guidance, Legacy provides essential health services, including:

• Free pregnancy testing
• Contraceptive counseling
• Ultrasounds and genetic testing
• Mammograms and routine women’s health exams
• STI testing and treatment

These services are especially critical for women who may face barriers to care—whether due to cost, transportation, language, or a lack of insurance. Legacy’s approach ensures that every woman, regardless of her background or circumstances, can access the care she needs.

Breaking Down Barriers for Latina Mothers

One of the ways Legacy truly stands out is in how it serves Latina mothers. With bilingual staff, Spanish-language education materials, and culturally tailored programs like Becoming a Mom®, Legacy ensures every mother feels seen, heard, and respected throughout her journey.

For many immigrant families, discussing topics like pregnancy, childbirth, or mental health with a health care provider can be intimidating—especially when language or cultural taboos are involved. Legacy’s staff understand these nuances and offer gentle, informed guidance to help women navigate an unfamiliar system with confidence.

“We want moms to feel supported, because navigating the health care system in the United States is not easy,” said Zuniga. This culturally competent approach reduces anxiety, fosters trust, and leads to better health outcomes—especially in communities where language, financial challenges, or immigration status often create barriers to care.

One of the most impactful tools in Legacy’s approach is Becoming a Mom®—a free, bilingual education program that helps expectant mothers feel confident and informed. The curriculum covers essential topics such as:

• What to expect during your pregnancy
• Nutrition
• Labor and delivery prep
• Breastfeeding techniques
• Newborn care
• Postpartum wellness

To make the experience even more meaningful, Legacy provides a community based collaborative model to deliver step by step education to pregnant people to improve their prenatal knowledge and health outcomes and celebrates mothers with baby showers graduation events that foster a strong sense of community. These gatherings reflect cherished Latino traditions of celebrating new life with extended family, neighbors, and comadres—creating a warm, welcoming environment for moms-to-be.

“We have a certified lactation consultant on staff. Moms need support in that area of motherhood, too,” said Zuniga. “In our nutrition classes, we also teach them how to eat healthy and stay active.” She adds, “It’s important to eat a balanced diet—fruits, vegetables, grains, and dairy. It’s okay to satisfy cravings, but in moderation.”

Supporting Teens and Young Mothers

Young mothers often face unique challenges—and Legacy meets them with compassion, education, and practical support. The program offers:

• A nonjudgmental environment
• Culturally sensitive educational resources
• Help with managing appointments and learning parenting skills

“Legacy Community Health operates in several schools throughout the area, ensuring students have access to essential health education and services,” said Zuniga. “We recognize how important it is for young people to have access to accurate, timely information. That’s why the collaboration between schools and Legacy is so crucial. Access to health care is vital, regardless of a woman’s age, immigration status, or whether she has insurance.”

Legacy also understands that many young Latina mothers may face stigma or family pressure when navigating early motherhood. By creating a safe, supportive space that honors their cultural identity, Legacy empowers them to feel confident and capable.

By equipping teen moms with knowledge, resources, and respect, Legacy is helping build stronger, healthier futures—for both mothers and their babies.

Life After Birth: Continuing the Support

At Legacy, care doesn’t end with delivery—it continues well into postpartum life to ensure the well-being of both mother and baby. The Prenatal Navigation team provides:

• Lactation consultations (in-person and virtual)
• Car seat safety classes
• Ongoing postpartum support for both mom and baby

This extended support helps strengthen not just the health of the baby, but the stability and confidence of the entire family.

“The program is called Perinatal Navigation,” explained Zuniga. “From the early stages of pregnancy during the first trimester and the following trimesters, until the baby begins pediatric appointments, we have staff who personally follow up with moms, to make sure they attend their appointments, and help prevent chronic conditions during and after pregnancy.”

She adds, “Postpartum care for the mother is just as important as the care she received during pregnancy.”

Addressing Maternal Health Disparities

Legacy Community Health is deeply committed to health equity, with programs designed to address the specific challenges faced by African American and Latina mothers. From higher rates of maternal mortality to barriers rooted in language, income, and access—Legacy meets these disparities with compassion, understanding, and action.

Through personalized care, sliding-scale fees, and bilingual services, Legacy ensures that quality health care isn’t just accessible—it’s equitable and culturally responsive.

If you’re expecting a baby—or supporting someone who is—Legacy wants you to know: you’re not alone. Whether you have insurance or not, regardless of your immigration status or income level, you’ll receive respectful, affordable, and comprehensive care.

“Legacy is here for every mother, no matter her situation,” said Zuniga. “We want to make sure she feels supported from her first appointment through her baby’s early checkups.”

Get Connected

Whether it’s your first pregnancy or your third, Legacy’s Prenatal Navigation team is here to walk alongside you—offering guidance, compassion, and care every step of the way.

Visit LegacyCommunityHealth.org or call (832) 548-5000 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.

And don’t forget to share this resource with your tías, primas, comadres or neighbors—because in our communities, we lift each other up. Every mamá deserves support, respect and care that feels like home.