Preparing for birth and parenthood

These guidelines advocate an earlier start to preparation for birth and parenthood, and a broader approach to parent support and to improving the skills of women and their partners in health matters.
Their aim is to help health professionals

1. prepare couples for the birth of their child and taking the baby home, through educational sessions suited to the needs and expectations of the parents-to-be

2. support couples, especially those who are vulnerable, in order to avoid parent-child relationship problems

3. provide information and key points on parenting: building family relationships; the material, educational and emotional needs of the growing child

4. encourage better coordination among the relevant professionals and with the pregnant woman, from the antenatal to the postnatal period