What is 9 Months Plus?
It is a program in which the Head Start registered nurse visits with an expectant mom during her pregnancy and up to six weeks after delivery. The program also includes group socials at which moms can connect with other expectant or newly delivered moms for networking, education, and fun activities.

What is the goal of the program?
The goal of the 9 Months Plus program is to promote healthy pregnancies by providing early and continuous support to increase positive childbirth outcomes.

How does 9 Months Plus accomplish this?
The nurse educator provides education with the Beginnings Pregnancy Guide and other available, professional resources. Information covered includes fetal development, healthy practices, normal body changes associated with pregnancy, signs & symptoms of possible complications, explanation of and need for prenatal care and screenings, nutrition, risk factors in pregnancy, breastfeeding, labor and delivery expectations, signs and symptoms of postpartum depression, newborn care, and mother/infant bonding.

Benefit of 9 Months Plus to expectant moms:
Every pregnancy is a unique experience. First time moms and moms who are expecting their second or third child usually have questions during their pregnancy or immediately after delivery. Having access to a nurse educator gives moms another resource to get the answers to the questions they forget to ask or feel they don't have time to ask while at the doctor. Sometimes all that is needed is more information or to have a planned procedure explained in more detail. The nurse can also assess for signs or symptoms and make recommendations as to the follow up that may be needed. Having knowledge empowers an expectant mom to make informed choices throughout her pregnancy and after.