Pregnancy and motherhood are deeply personal journeys — and for women Veterans, they can also bring unique challenges. At the Orlando VA Healthcare System (OVAHCS), the Perinatal Reproductive Education Planning and Resources (PREPARe) Program is working to ensure no woman Veteran faces that journey alone.
PREPARe, is an interdisciplinary program designed to support women Veterans who are pregnant, postpartum, trying to conceive, or planning for their future. It offers coordinated access to VA services, specialized care, and opportunities for connection.
“Our PREPARe Program is a wraparound approach that brings together all the services women Veterans may need during this vulnerable time,” explained Melissa Tran, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Reproductive Health Program Manager.
Tran emphasizes, “We want our Veterans to feel seen, supported, and celebrated.”
Among the most popular offerings are the program’s Perinatal Veteran Socials — in-person gatherings where Veterans can connect with one another, share experiences, and learn about available resources.
Tran shared, “The idea came from an overwhelming need — women telling us they felt isolated and wanted to interact with other Veteran moms.”
“We purposely planned our most recent social around Mother’s Day to honor and celebrate these incredible women. They served our country, and now they’re raising the next generation. That deserves recognition,” Tran stated.
During the socials, Veterans can meet other moms, schedule playdates, and explore services both within the VA and in the community. The VA provides a wide range of maternity-related resources, including maternity care packages, access to maternity care coordinators, lactation education, nutrition classes, Tai Chi, and even hypnosis and wellness programs.
Tran emphasized the importance of creating a safe space for women Veterans.
“Pregnancy and postpartum are major life transitions,” Tran noted.
Tran adds, “It’s important we offer support that goes beyond clinical care — and provide a space where our Veterans feel connected to others who truly understand their experiences.”
Air Force Veteran Victoria Steen knows firsthand how impactful the program can be.
“Being in the military is like having a family. And even after you leave, you still carry that connection,” said Steen, who served six years within avionics. “Being a Veteran and a mom — that’s always been my mission.”
After giving birth during the pandemic, Steen found the VA’s mental health and maternity services crucial to her well-being.
“I was supported by counselors the entire way through my pregnancy,” Steen shared.
Steen continued, “They got me out of the house, helped me meet other moms, and gave me something to look forward to. It’s different when you’re with other Veterans. You understand each other in a way no one else can.”
Steen now attends the socials with her nine-month-old son and encourages other Veterans to do the same.
“There’s so much value in this kind of support,” Steen said. “If you’re a Veteran and a mom, this is your community.”
Theresa Zephirin, Women Veterans Program Manager, says PREPARe reflects the Orlando VA’s broader commitment to whole-person care.
“This program is a shining example of what it means to care for the whole Veteran — not just medically, but emotionally and socially,” stated Zephirin.
Zephirin added, “We’re proud to support our women Veterans through every stage of their journey, especially during such a transformative time in their lives.”
Women Veterans interested in the PREPARe Program or Perinatal Veteran Socials should reach out to their provider to connect with the Women Veterans Program Manager.
Joseph Nunez is the Public Affairs Specialist at the Orlando VA Healthcare System (OVAHCS)
