Programs that offer classes or other educational experiences which prepare prospective mothers and their birth partners emotionally and physically for the labour and birth process. Topics covered include anatomy and physiology of birth, relaxation and breathing techniques, different types of labours, birthing/delivery options and postpartum care. Also included are programs that prepare other members of the family (grandparents and siblings) for the arrival of a new family member.

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Mutual support groups for parents who share a common characteristic or circumstance such as being single parents, dual career parents, multiple birth parents, parents with children who are out of control, or parents of children with disabilities, who come together for educational and social purposes as well as for mutual support. Meeting formats may include in-person, telephone or Internet options.

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Programs that provide emotional support, information and guidance in a variety of settings for individuals who have symptoms of depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder or postpartum psychosis, mental disorders that are associated with PMADs and affect an estimated 15% to 21% of pregnant and postpartum individuals in the weeks before and/or after their baby's birth. Therapists providing counselling and other services tailor therapeutic interventions to each person's PMADs diagnosis. But there are general recommendations that can be incorporated to support each client's ability to benefit from the interventions specific to their individual PMADs diagnosis which may include normalizing and destigmatizing the situation (reassuring them that it is normal to feel ambivalent during pregnancy and motherhood), prioritizing sleep, encouraging exercise and finally, developing a strong social network which may involve other individuals experiencing PMADs, a general "new moms group", or activities that focus on interests other than motherhood.

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