Childbirth Education
An all-inclusive 8-hour course designed to empower expectant parents in their childbirth options. This class is taught monthly by our Childbirth Educator, and is recommended for all first time parents. Second time parents are also welcome for those needing a refresher course!
Topics covered include:
Overview of Normal Labor
Including female anatomy, signs of labor, the three stages of labor, the physiology of labor and delivery as well as the typical emotional responses of the laboring woman. Discussion emphasizes the normalcy of labor and variations.
Comfort Techniques-Natural Pain Management
Including relaxation, massage, breathing techniques, using focal points, visualizations and guided imagery, the use of water therapy, music and sounds, positioning for labor comfort and aromatherapy. Discussion emphasizes utilizing these techniques to shorten your overall labor, ease the pain of labor, and the special role of support people for the laboring woman.
Medical Procedures and Interventions
Including electronic fetal monitoring, induction or augmentation of labor using Pitocin as well as natural techniques, pain medications and epidural anesthesia, assisted deliveries, and Cesarean birth. Discussion emphasizes making choices regarding your birth based on knowledge of a procedure’s pros and cons, risks and advantages.
Recovery and Postpartum
Including the physical changes from immediately after the birth to 6 weeks later (and beyond!) Discussion also addresses emotional and social adjustments to parenting, basic newborn care and breastfeeding.
Classes also include assistance in developing a birth plan, if desired, as well as a comprehensive “labor rehearsal.”
