Pacify and Seven Starling have announced a strategic partnership to combat untreated mental health conditions, one of the leading drivers of maternal mortality in the United States. The integration, announced during Black Maternal Health Week, offers members of both platforms access to evidence-based doula care and specialized maternal mental health services.
“Improving maternal health outcomes for our members is our top priority along with providing comprehensive, personalized experiences,” said Jennifer Sargent, CEO of Pacify. “While evidence shows that doulas and lactation support can have a tremendous impact on reducing the odds of postpartum depression and anxiety, we recognize the complexities of maternal mental health, and the impact it has on maternal morbidity.”
The partnership directly addresses alarming statistics: the U.S. maintains the highest maternal mortality rate among developed countries, with Black women three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes. Mental health conditions are the leading cause of maternal mortality, yet nearly 40% of Black mothers who experience these conditions are only half as likely to receive evidence-based support.
“One in five expectant mothers experience anxiety or depression during and after pregnancy,” said Tina Beilinson Keshani, co-founder and CEO of Seven Starling. “Our services include individual and group therapy, medication management, and care navigation, all provided by specialists in maternal mental health. Integrating our offerings enhances our collective member experiences, creating affordable, seamless access to a full spectrum of evidence-based, outcomes-focused maternal care.”
The collaboration bridges critical gaps in care by combining Pacify’s doula-led model—shown to lower C-section rates by 39% and increase prenatal care adherence—with Seven Starling’s nationwide network of maternal mental health specialists. Seven Starling accepts all major health plans, including Medicaid, making these services accessible to underserved communities and those in maternal health deserts.
Through this integration, Pacify members gain access to Seven Starling’s specialized mental health provider network throughout their care journey. Likewise, Seven Starling members can leverage Pacify’s trained doulas and certified lactation consultants throughout pregnancy and postpartum, including 24/7 on-demand support.
This comprehensive approach aims to provide more equitable access to maternal care, particularly for BIPOC communities and those in areas with limited healthcare options, while offering a scalable solution for health plans, systems, and public health agencies working to improve maternal health outcomes.
