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Women's Health Program Hosts Annual "Mommy & Me" Baby Shower

Dr. Ladi Kukoyi, Birmingham VA Executive Director, accepts $500 donation check to the Women's Health Program

By Jessie Box, Public Affairs Specialist

The Birmingham VA Health Care System Women’s Health Program recently hosted another heartwarming "Mommy & Me" baby shower, a cherished event designed to support our maternity Veterans.

This unique gathering offers an invaluable opportunity for these brave women to receive expert advice from health providers while being celebrated with an array of thoughtful baby gifts.

This year's event was particularly special, thanks to the generous contributions from our Veteran and community organizations. Among the many gifts, a notable $500 donation check from the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 255 stood out. The shower was filled with joy as the moms-to-be received flowers, a pack and play, and diaper bags brimming with essentials such as bottles, pacifiers, shampoo, diapers, wipes, clothes, blankets, and detergent.

The "Mommy & Me" baby shower also serves as a shared medical appointment, where pregnant or recently delivered Veterans can gain valuable insights on various health topics. These include nutrition, breastfeeding, safe sleeping practices, medication management, and recognizing the warning signs of pregnancy and postpartum complications.

Appreciation from the moms is evident, with many sharing this is the only baby shower they will experience. The gifts, additional care, and celebration of this new chapter in their lives are all a testament to the community's commitment to supporting these women.

“Our overall goal is to increase awareness of VA benefits for maternity care and to provide support for our Veterans during and after pregnancy” said Amy Southern, Women’s Health Program Manager. 

This initiative aims to improve the health of moms through various stages, including:

  • Care Coordination: A multidisciplinary team works together to ensure positive pregnancy experiences and outcomes.
  • Family Planning and Pre-Conception: A focus on improving health through lifestyle changes, chronic disease management, and addressing socio-economic factors.
  • Pregnancy & Prenatal Care: Managing chronic diseases and educating about warning signs during pregnancy.
  • Childbirth & Delivery: Providing attentive, sensitive care and closely monitoring complaints, symptoms, and signs.
  • Postpartum/After Delivery: Enhancing care up to one year after birth, including access to emergency services.
  • Postpartum Family Planning and Contraception: Offering access to 12-month contraception supplies.

 

Want to be part of our next baby shower celebration? Visit our website today to find out more and join the fun!

To learn more about our Women's Health Program and the services offered, visit here.