
The goal of Kaiser Permanente’s Early Start is to help women have a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby

The goal of Early Start is simple; it is to support a healthy pregnancy in order to have a healthy baby.
The Early Start Program is an example of Kaiser Permanente’s holistic approach to health and wellness in pregnancy.
Early Start is a universal part of prenatal care at Kaiser Permanente. Prenatal Counselors, known as Early Start Specialists, are located in all 49 of our Ob-Gyn clinics across Northern California.
Patients who would benefit from Early Start are identified based on information provided by the patient early in their pregnancy. The majority of patients only see the Specialist once for an assessment appointment, but patients who may need more support will be scheduled for additional follow up visits.
Topics covered in Early Start appointments may include:
- the importance of avoiding alcohol, tobacco and other drugs
- general pregnancy information
- Kaiser Permanente classes
- stress reduction techniques
- pregnancy leave information
- mother/baby resources
For the patient’s convenience, Early Start appointments are booked in conjunction with routine prenatal appointments whenever possible.

Meet Our Specialists
Early Start specialists provide one-on-one education, support, and resources tailored to fit each patient’s individual needs. Topics covered in Early Start appointments may include: the importance of avoiding alcohol, tobacco and other drugs as well as general pregnancy information, Kaiser Permanente classes, stress reduction techniques, pregnancy leave information, and mother/baby resources. For the patient’s convenience, Early Start appointments are booked in conjunction with routine prenatal appointments whenever possible.

Resources
For Patients
- Kaiser Permanente Pregnancy Site
- Kaiser Permanente Pregnancy Classes
- What is Safe During Pregnancy?
- March of Dimes “Is It Safe” covers many specific substances from household cleaners and pet supplies to prescription and street drugs and explains what may be of concern for your baby.
- Stress Management
- Stress During Pregnancy
- Guided Imagery Podcasts for Pregnancy
- Steps for Progressive Relaxation
- Pregnancy and Depression
For Health Care Providers
The Early Start Regional Team
- Amy Conway, MPH, Regional Director
- Deborah Ansley, MD, Medical Director
- Allison Ettenger, Managerial Consultant
- Karis Coleman, Project Manager
- Linda Ely, Senior Consulting Associate
- Journie Hurley, Department Secretary
Contact Us
For questions about the Early Start Program, send us a quick message: