Mega Doctor News
The journey to parenthood is filled with excitement, anticipation and plenty of questions. From pregnancy through a baby’s arrival, every stage brings important decisions and new responsibilities.
While preparing for a baby can feel overwhelming, planning for a healthy pregnancy and birth begins long before delivery.
Early prenatal care plays a critical role in supporting the health of both mother and baby, providing access to essential screenings, education and ongoing medical support.
Only 75.5% of mothers in the United States began prenatal care during the first trimester in 2024, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), marking a decline from recent years despite the well-established benefits of early prenatal care.
With early prenatal care rates declining nationwide, access to trusted guidance, educational resources and maternal health support is more important than ever, helping expectant families navigate pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum journey with greater confidence and peace of mind.
“Welcoming a new baby is an exciting journey, but it often comes with questions and concerns,” said NormaLinda Aguirre, BSN, RNCOB, Director of Women’s Services & Nursery at the Maternity Center at South Texas Health System (STHS) Edinburg. “It’s important that families feel informed, prepared and supported every step of the way. When parents have access to the right resources and care, they can approach pregnancy, childbirth and parenthood with greater confidence and peace of mind.”
The journey to parenthood is unique for every family, and having access to the right support and resources can help parents feel more confident and prepared every step of the way.
As part of its commitment to supporting growing families, The Maternity Center at STHS Edinburg and STHS McAllen will host its fourth annual Baby Bump & Beyond Expo on Saturday, August 22, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
Held at STHS Edinburg, the free community event will feature expert-led presentations on pregnancy, labor and delivery, postpartum recovery and newborn care, equipping families with the knowledge and resources needed to navigate parenthood with confidence.
Attendees will have access to educational sessions on infant health, breastfeeding, postpartum care, adjusting to parenthood, maternal mental health and postpartum depression, along with free health screenings, pregnancy-safe exercise demonstrations and tours of The Maternity Center. The event will also connect families with valuable resources and support services designed to promote a healthy start for both mother and baby.
“Becoming a parent doesn’t come with a handbook, which is why education and support are so important,” said Tom Castañeda, System Director of Marketing & Public Relations, STHS. “The Baby Bump & Beyond Expo gives families the opportunity to connect with healthcare professionals, ask questions and access valuable resources that can help them feel more confident and prepared for the journey ahead. By bringing together families, healthcare experts and community resources, we can help parents feel supported, informed and empowered through every stage of pregnancy, childbirth and early parenthood.”
Throughout the event, families can explore exhibitor booths, attend educational sessions, tour The Maternity Center and discover programs and services designed to promote healthy outcomes for both mother and baby.
For more information on the STHS Baby Bump & Beyond Expo, visit the STHS Facebook Events page or call the STHS Marketing Department at (956) 388-2020.
| Who: | South Texas Health System Edinburg |
| What: | Baby Bump & Beyond Expo |
| When: | Saturday, August 22, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. |
| Where: | South Texas Health System Edinburg1102 W. Trenton Rd.Edinburg, TX 78539 |
