The number of pregnant veterans using VHA maternity care coverage increased > 14-fold between 2000 and 2015,6 and a recent survey of female active-duty service members found that > 40% have been pregnant since joining the military.17 Studies have shown that veterans treated at VHA facilities have elevated rates of pregnancy complications, such as gestational diabetes and hypertensive disorder.9 Active-duty service members have reported overt experiences of stigma, harassment, and bias related to being pregnant within the work environment, contributing to negative perceptions of their pregnancy experience.10
