A Game Changer for Non-Birthing Parents

After creating a groundbreaking text message support program for new mothers, Dr. Justine Dol is now turning her attention towards non-birthing parents, aiming to fill a significant gap in postpartum care.

Introducing Essential Coaching Postpartum

Dr. Dol and her team have developed what they call "Essential Coaching Postpartum," a program tailored specifically for parents navigating the first six weeks after the arrival of their baby.

Bridging the Support Gap

While the program for birthing parents is already in use, the stream dedicated to non-birthing parents, dubbed "Essential Coaching for Every Partner," is currently in its research phase.

Call for Participants: Your Support is Needed!

To advance this innovative initiative, Dr. Dol and researchers from Dalhousie University and IWK Health are looking to recruit 166 expecting or new birthing parents along with an equal number of non-birthing parents from across Nova Scotia. Participants will receive daily supportive text messages and complete brief surveys to provide essential feedback.

An Urgent Appeal for Involvement

Dr. Dol expressed enthusiasm for more inclusivity: "We launched the program softly about a month ago, but we haven’t seen significant participation from non-birthing parents yet. It's crucial that they get involved, whether individually or as couples. There’s no need for both parents to enroll together."

Enhancing the Parenting Experience

Postpartum support is vital, and this text messaging program aims to make non-birthing parents feel more connected and informed as they learn about baby care, ultimately bridging the support gap that has often been overlooked.

A Proven Success with Birthing Parents

This initiative builds on Dr. Dol’s previous research from 2019, which showed that her text messaging program significantly boosted the confidence of first-time birthing parents during the critical early weeks while also reducing anxiety levels, regardless of the number of children.

A Step Towards Inclusivity

Recognizing that the original program primarily helped birthing parents, Dol has spent the last few years refining a corresponding program that ensures non-birthing parents receive the support they deserve.

Get Involved Today!

This exciting opportunity aims to empower families by providing essential resources during a transformative time. If you’re in Nova Scotia and want to become a part of this pioneering effort, don’t hesitate to enroll!