He Hapai Pono

I learned of He Hapai Pono on HawaiiMoms.com and immediately enrolled. He Hapai Pono is a free program for HMSA members, which encourages a healthy pregnancy through education and ongoing support.

Since I’ve enrolled, a nurse has called me once a month to ask me questions about my health and provide recommendations. It also offers an open line of communication to access registered nurses who are prepared to answer any questions you may have about your pregnancy. I’ve received a free book, “Your Baby’s First Year, Week by Week” as well as other printed information by mail. Today, I received a brochure entitled “Newborn Care” and a survey which will help them assess my emotional outlook and diagnose early signs of depression.

I haven’t pondered it much, but after completing the survey, I must admit that my outlook on life in general has been quite positive. Despite my hormones going nuts (evidenced by my face breaking out!), I haven’t been overly emotional or depressed lately. It was much worse when I was undergoing the in vitro fertilization process and taking daily injections of a cocktail of hormones. I’m sure the uncertainty of the whole situation didn’t help either, but I was truly an emotional wreck for about six months. I imagined myself as a raw nerve, ready to burst into tears at the drop of a hat. I’m much more stable these days, especially since my morning sickness has finally subsided. It only took about five months for my stomach to start feeling nearly normal. I hope it doesn’t return in the latter part of my third trimester, as can sometimes occur if you’re particularly unlucky.

I’m glad that HMSA has programs like He Hapai Pono that provide support and guidance to first time moms like me. I’m totally clueless and need all the help I can get.