The 2025 VNPC Clinical Environmental Scan provides an overview of clinical maternal and newborn health trends in Virginia from 2020 to 2024. Data from the Virginia Maternal Health Dashboard shows a slight increase in inpatient deliveries with notable variations by race and payer. Vaginal deliveries accounted for about two-thirds of births, while cesarean sections made up the rest. From 2020-2024, the racial distribution of Virginia deliveries was 50% White, 20% Black, and 30% Other Races, and the distribution of payer sources was 52% Commercial, 36% Medicaid, and 12% Other Payer sources.

Perinatal mental health conditions, particularly anxiety and depression, were prevalent, especially among White and Medicaid populations. Substance use disorder rates were also higher among White and Medicaid patients, with opioid use remaining significant despite a decrease in recent years. Obstetric hemorrhage rates rose steadily, with postpartum hemorrhage being the leading cause.

Cardiac conditions during pregnancy increased, with arrhythmias and congenital heart disease being the most frequent issues. Severe hypertension rates also rose, particularly among Black and Medicaid patients. Infant health data revealed rising rates of conditions originating in the perinatal period and congenital abnormalities, also with higher prevalence among Black and Medicaid populations.

Access to care remains a challenge, with the number of birthing hospitals decreasing from 68 in 2012 to 49 in 2024, indicating higher preterm birth and severe maternal morbidity rates when mothers are living more than 25 miles from a hospital. The report underscores the need for targeted interventions to address health disparities and improve outcomes for all patients.