Oral Care and Pregnant Women Experiencing Homelessness

Pregnant Women and Oral Health

Adequate oral care is scarce for the homeless population but there are individuals within this community that experience a higher degree of vulnerability, like pregnant women. Pregnant women experience oral health complications during their pregnancy like gingivitis or tooth decay. The hormones of pregnant women fluctuate heavily during their pregnancy; They experience morning sickness/vomiting and this makes their gums and teeth more sensitive and susceptible to disease and decay (Head Start, 2025). As a healthy baseline, women who are pregnant are recommended to brush their twice a day, floss regularly, consume a healthy diet, and receive oral care (Head Start, 2025).

Resources for Pregnant Women Experiencing Homelessness

Women are generally a vulnerable population while experiencing homelessness, but when they are pregnant, they must urgently receive medical and oral care for the benefit of their child and themselves. A place where pregnant homeless women can find an adequate amount of shelter, food, health, and oral care is Maternity homes. The Portland-based Hope Squared Foundation is a place where all pregnant women in the Portland area can find shelter, overall health care, and maternity support. Maternity homes are a life-giving resource for homeless pregnant women, especially if they seek stability after giving birth. A specific maternity home that pregnant women experiencing homelessness in Portland can visit or stay at is Saving Grace Maternity Home. Rose Haven is another center located in Portland that specializes in supporting women and children experiencing poverty and homelessness.

How You Can Make an Impact

Image From: https://rosehaven.org/

Overall, maternity homes and dental care services for pregnant women experiencing homelessness are key resources that improve vulnerable situations. Greater Health Portland is an organization that provides oral care for impoverished and homeless populations like pregnant homeless women. In the case of homeless pregnant women, receiving shelter and prenatal care are most urgent, and oral care is included within these necessities. The Portland community should proudly support organizations and foundations like Greater Health Portland, Hope Squared, Saving Grace Maternity Home, and Rose Haven if they want to support pregnant women experiencing homelessness and in need of dental care.

References

Greater Health Portland. (2025). https://www.greaterportlandhealth.org/

Head Start. (2025, January 21). Promoting oral health services for pregnant women. https://headstart.gov/oral-health/brush-oral-health/promoting-oral-health-services-pregnant-women

Hope Squared Foundation. (n.d.) https://www.hopesquaredfoundation.org/

Rose Haven. (n.d.).  https://rosehaven.org/

Saving Grace Maternity Home. (n.d.).  https://savinggracematernityhome.org/