Pregnancy Resource Briefing a good resource for soon-to-be parents Published July 1, 2016 By Kimberly Woodruff Staff Writer TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Expecting a bundle of joy to join the family soon? The Pregnancy Resource Briefing is just what parents need to get information on caring for their new little one. Resources and contact information are provided that may help relieve any questions or concerns after baby's arrival. It also doubles as a new support group to turn to when there are questions after the baby's arrival. "The briefing is valuable as it provides information on a variety of topics related to pregnancy and health, it provides safety information in relation to newborn care, it provides information on how to insure the babies and mothers insurance needs are covered. The briefing is valuable as it provides information on a variety of topics in regard to pregnancy, health, ensuring the insurance needs are covered for the mother and baby," said Marci Johnson, a nurse with the 72nd Medical Group. Topics include the New Parent Support Program, safe sleep, the Period of PURPLE crying, shaken baby syndrome, fitness, nutrition and dental concerns during pregnancy. A representative with Tricare will also be available to answer parents' questions. During the pregnancy, physical fitness is important for both mom and baby. Traci Fuhrman, an exercise physiologist with the 72nd Force Support Squadron, said there are many benefits of fitness or staying active during pregnancy. "It helps to control weight gain, eases or prevents back pain, reduces risk of gestational diabetes and increased blood pressure, helps you sleep better, boosts mood and energy levels, increases stamina and muscle strength and decreases symptoms of post-partum," she said. Along with fitness, adopting a healthy diet also is beneficial to both mom and baby. Eating healthy during pregnancy helps to build the baby's healthy brain and strong bones, teeth, skin and organs and can help prevent some birth defects, said Wendi Knowles, the nutrition program manager with 72nd Medical Group's Health Promotion. "For mom, it gives mom the energy and strength during pregnancy and during the labor and delivery," she said. "It can also help prevent mom from losing her body's nutrition to the baby." According to Ms. Knowles, below are some healthy guidelines to follow concerning extra calories and a healthy weight gain. No extra calories 1st Trimester 340 extra calories 2nd Trimester 450 extra calories 3rd Trimester Healthy Weight Gain: 28-40 pounds (if underweight) 25-35 pounds (if normal weight) 15-25 pounds (if overweight) 11 to 20 pounds (if obese) In addition to looking after mom's health and fitness, the New Parent Support Program is a home visitation based program that can help the family adjust to life with a newborn. "A registered nurse comes to the family's home twice a month and stays about an hour to provide information on childhood growth and development, nutrition, parenting strategies and so on," said Ms. Johnson. She added that any family with TRICARE coverage and a military affiliation is eligible so long as they are either pregnant or have a child or children under the age of 3 years. The service is free. Lastly, attendees are given details about a great free program, Family Expectations, which helps expectant and new parents to be more effective as a couple and as parents. The PRB is held from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. on the first Wednesday of the month in the 72nd MDG's Lakesha Levy Conference Room, located near pediatrics. To register for the briefing or to register for the New Parents Support Program, call Family Advocacy at 582-6604.