US-based maternity clinic Millie has secured $12m in a Series A funding round to expand its technology platform and services.

Co-led by TMV and Foreground Capital, the funding round saw participation from the March of Dimes Innovation Fund and Pivotal Ventures.

Current investors, including Ingeborg Investments, BBG Ventures and LearnStart, also took part in this round.

Millie plans to use the investment to open clinics this year, with its first new clinic due to open in San Jose, California, in partnership with HCA Healthcare’s Good Samaritan Hospital.

The expansion will also include broadening Millie’s gynaecology and wraparound care services, as part of the group's efforts to address the needs of expectant mothers with its patient-centred approach.

Good Samaritan Hospital Patrick Rohan said: “We are thrilled to welcome Millie to our hospital family and the San Jose area.

“Their innovative approach to maternity care is inspiring, and we’re proud to partner with them to ensure that every family’s birthing experience is as safe, supported, and empowering as it can be.”

The US maternity care sector faces significant challenges, including high costs, substandard outcomes and reduced access to care due to obstetrician gynaecologist (OBGYN) shortages.

Millie's approach to addressing these issues involves accepting all major insurance plans, including Medicaid, and implementing a care model that has demonstrated improved outcomes.

Its care model extends beyond clinical care, offering home postpartum visits, one-on-one coaching with doulas, and additional support services such as lactation consulting and mental health counselling.

The clinic was founded by Anu Sharma after she suffered a 'near-miss' following the birth of her daughter.

Sharma said: “I’m proud that Millie is not only a women-powered team, but is also backed by an all-star women-powered cap table — evidence that women are creating and funding their own solutions to create a better system for themselves.”