In a recent announcement by the Orlando VA Healthcare System (OVAHCS), expecting and postpartum parents will now have access to Perinatal Reproductive Education Planning and Resources (PREPARE) for all pregnancy and post-pregnancy veteran needs. The program will join the already abundant number of services the VA provides.

PREPARE offers a multitude of services for parent veterans, including tips, exercises and guidance virtually and in-person. The VA Hospital will support the new endeavor and form groups on Motherhood & Mood: Pregnancy and Postpartum, Lactation Counseling, Yoga, Helping to Endure Infant Loss, and more.

The new program has already had over 100 consultation appointments booked since its announcement. With time, the PREPARE initiative will expand and serve all expectant mothers and fathers and post-pregnancy parents.

At the head of PREPARE is licensed marriage and family therapist Melissa Tran. She is currently expecting her first child, and her connection encouraged her to take action and help other new parents navigate pregnancy and its related conditions. 

“I knew I couldn’t be the only one who felt lost navigating my pregnancy and postpartum period, so it became part of my mission to make sure that perinatal services, education and support are readily available to all across our healthcare system,” said Tran. “A collective team of professionals and I share the heart for helping perinatal families feel seen and supported during such a precious and vulnerable time. We are here for you.”

OVAHCS is proud to partner with PREPARE to bring top-tier, complete perinatal care to local veterans.