From early pregnancy through your baby’s first year is an all-important time of growth for your infant that can help shape his or her health and development for a lifetime.
Healthy Mother
During pregnancy your home visitor brings you information and support to ensure you and your growing baby are as healthy as possible. In the comfort of your home you receive:
- Prenatal education
- Nutrition guidance for healthy eating
- Breastfeeding education
- Education about early labor signs
- Help for feelings of depression
- Answers to your questions about motherhood
- A referral to a pediatrician, if needed
- Suggestions for MOMS Orange County classes
Healthy Baby
Once your baby arrives you learn to care for yourself and your newborn. Your baby gets health and development assessments. Your home visitor:
- Helps you make your home baby-safe
- Shows you how to encourage your baby’s healthy growth
- Provides you toys and play ideas that stimulate your baby’s brain development
- Screens your baby’s developmental achievements (at 4, 8, 12 months)
- Educates you on what to do when your baby gets sick
- Provides you referrals to additional help and resources within your community
- Educates you about symptoms of postpartum depression
Thinking About Breastfeeding?
Your home visitor will inform you about the many benefits of breastfeeding and will encourage you to attend a breastfeeding education class.
A Breastfeeding Coordinator is also available by referral to help you and your newborn begin a happy breastfeeding experience. You can receive:
- Tips and instruction for helping your baby nurse
- Personal support and encouragement in our breastfeeding support group
Diabetes During Pregnancy
For mothers with diabetes or who are at-risk for diabetes your home visitor will provide you with referrals to attend Pregnancy & Diabetes classes where you will learn:
- Healthy nutrition & exercise
- Coping skills
- How to reduce your risk of diabetes after pregnancy
You will also be encouraged to participate in the Sweet Success program, a nationally recognized program for diabetes support during pregnancy.
