Beaufort Memorial Serves Military Families

Last month, Beaufort Memorial visited military families expecting a baby from Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, Marine Corps Recruiting Depot Parris Island and Naval Hospital Beaufort through a partnership with the New Parent Support Program (NPSP). On May 2, Dr. Christopher Benson, a board-certified OB-GYN at Beaufort Memorial Obstetrics & Gynecology Specialists, spoke with active-duty families at the Laurel Bay housing community.

NPSP offers education, counseling and support to Marine Corps families and other expectant military service members. In recent years, the LifeFit Community Health Improvement Program has built a strong relationship with NPSP, as both groups have a common mission: to provide expectant families with the education and resources they need to promote good health for mother and baby.

During the discussion, Dr. Benson addressed a range of topics that affect maternal and infant health, including vaginal delivery, the Zika virus, vaccinations, nutrition and birth plans. Having served in the military himself, Dr. Benson has a unique understanding of the effects military life can have on growing families.

Beaufort Memorial’s Baby University offers classes each month for all expectant families. You do not need to be delivering at Beaufort Memorial Hospital to take the classes. For more information, contact Cindy Coburn Smith at 843-522-5570.