Pregnancy and childbirth are life changing experiences for women.  The transition to becoming a mother is a process that involves feelings, behaviors and attitudes that may be shaped by individual life experiences. The Military Health System understands that every woman experiences this process differently and is committed to ensuring each mother receives the education, support and care she needs.

The Department of Defense and the Department of Veterans Affairs’ publication, Pregnancy and Childbirth, based on their Management of Pregnancy Clinical Practice Guidelines, includes evidence-based research recommendations for prenatal care for all pregnant women receiving care in the DoD/VA health care systems.  It is designed as a resource for pregnant women, and provides quality information that can serve as a reference, guide, journal and springboard for further discussion and education. 

This joint publication is focused towards goal-oriented prenatal care, a process of setting a series of goals in preparing for delivery and beyond.  Each visit with the doctor is outlined throughout the pregnancy to help expecting mothers identify steps to ease the process.  Also included is information about each stage of pregnancy, including the status of the embryo, changes to a woman’s body and changes within the family.  The guide helps women identify signs which need to be reported to a doctor and how the pregnancy is affecting them emotionally, mentally and physically.  It also lets women know what to expect from each doctor’s visit. 

Once a woman is ready for delivery, these guidelines help prepare her for the experience of labor.  Afterwards, information about feeding the baby, caring for her own reproductive needs, safety tips and supplies addresses many of the questions mothers may have. 

After the baby comes home, the DoD continues to support new families through its new parent support program.  This program employs nurses, social workers and others who can provide access to a variety of education programs.  These individuals may make home visits to assist in the helping women in their role as a new mother. 

For women veterans receiving services through the VA, each facility has a Women Veterans Program Manager who assists with finding the resources needed during pregnancy and after delivery. 

Read more about women’s health.