Navigating the challenging terrain of parenthood, especially with newborns, became easier for a group of parents in northern Colorado, thanks to a new postpartum support group in Fort Collins.

Since its inception in July 2023, the UCHealth Family Medicine Center Postpartum Support Group has rapidly grown, now welcoming more than a dozen mothers and their infants every Wednesday for a unique blend of emotional support, expert advice and essential resources.

The journey into parenthood often presents a whirlwind of questions and uncertainties – from sleep schedules and feedings to the financial strain of diapers, clothing and increased grocery bills. The FMC Postpartum Support Group recognizes these challenges and addresses them comprehensively in a weekly gathering.

“We are here to take care of the whole family,” said Monica Faherty, a registered nurse and care manager at FMC. “The continuity we create, the trusting relationships we build, and the interrelationships that the participants build with one another is unmatched in the community.”

A thriving, inclusive postpartum support group

In a spacious room near the UCHealth Family Medicine Center, mothers and their little ones gather at 11 a.m. every Wednesday in a calm, nurturing environment. Participants share conversations about their experiences and insights, dialogue that makes the gathering a haven for parents to connect, learn and grow together.

Maria Naumburg, a Spanish-speaking registered nurse and supporter of the group, emphasizes the significance of the connections made.

“This is an easy and convenient place for moms to ask questions of medical residents and lactation consultants, avoiding the ER, urgent care or medical appointments,” she said. “We provide referrals and resources, and the connections I’ve seen here are amazing.”

Connections and referrals are important, said Courtney Kuepper, a social worker with UCHealth. According to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment, one in nine women who give birth will experience signs and symptoms of depression. A big part of Kuepper’s role with the group is providing mental health resources to attendees in collaboration with obstetric care provided by a rotating medical resident from FMC and UCHealth registered nurses.

Beyond the social and emotional support, the group serves as a platform for parents to seek advice from health experts, obtain assistance with breastfeeding and learn about available resources for pelvic floor therapy, primary care and behavioral health support.

“I’m very motivated to come because I feel comfortable and supported here,” said Nely Angeles, a Spanish-speaking mother who lives in Fort Collins. “I love getting my questions answered (in her native language), and I get the opinion of the nurses and medical residents here before making a doctor’s appointment.”

At meetings, parents can weigh their child before and after breastfeeding, showing how much their child consumes each feeding. Others weigh their child once weekly to ensure their child’s development is on track.

The support group has become a lifeline for Krissy Wagner, a stay-at-home mom who sought social opportunities outside the home.

“I like the social aspect and weighing Stevie every week,” she said. “She was born small, so it is helpful, and I stress out a bit less.”

Amelia Van Dyck, who experienced postpartum preeclampsia and nursing difficulty, found invaluable help and support from experts in the group.

“I come with random questions,” she said. “The first week, the resident checked my (C-section) incision.” Based on his guidance, she was able to make a well-informed decision about whether to schedule a doctor’s appointment.

Kuepper and Faherty started the group. Naumburg and registered nurse Michele Mayes refer many participants to the group. They do home visits for mothers on Medicaid a few days after delivery as part of UCHealth’s Postpartum Home Visit Program. Mayes and Naumburg also attend the weekly group. And FMC medical residents rotate through the group to offer additional support.

New parents can also access essential items such as diapers and clothes, and parents can fill out a shopping list and leave with groceries from the neighboring FMC Food Pantry at the end of the meeting.

“Our ability to directly refer and connect patients with the resources they need, when they need them, sets us apart from other groups,” Faherty said.

The new support group offers a holistic approach to parenting support that has garnered praise and gratitude from its attendees. It exemplifies the power of community and expert guidance in making the challenging journey of parenthood a bit smoother – and healthier.

“We want everyone to feel comfortable coming to us in the postpartum period and receiving the care the family needs and deserves,” she said.