PRENATAL EDUCATION PROGRAM

We are pleased that you have decided to take an active role in preparing for the birth of your child!  We understand how important it is to you that your pregnancy and the birth of your child are positive, rewarding experiences. Our prenatal education program has been specifically designed to prepare families for this goal.

Through a series of classes ranging from Delivery Awareness and Breastfeeding, to Sibling Preparation, New Baby, and Lamaze classes, we help you explore the options that are available to you as parents.  A nominal fee is required for most of these classes.

REGISTRATION: 494-3212

After reviewing the available classes, we encourage you to register by calling our registration line. Register early for the best selection of classes and dates that will be most convenient for you.

CHILDBIRTH CLASSES

Delivery Awareness

Moms and their support persons are strongly encouraged to take Delivery Awareness. This series of classes includes an overview of labor and birth, a description of hospital procedures and what to expect during labor, and a tour of the LDRP's of The Family Birthplace. An anesthesiologist discusses the OB anesthesia choices that are available.

• Variations to the normal process such as operative vaginal delivery and cesarean births are discussed.
• Explanations of other possible procedures such as episiotomies, postpartum tubal ligation, fetal monitoring, pain medication, etc. are given.
• Newborn characteristics and procedures are addressed.

New Baby

This two-part class meets every other month. Classes are designed to prepare couples for the sometimes overwhelming feeling that can accompany the responsibility of caring for a totally dependent infant. A variety of topics are discussed including bottle-feeding, circumcision, normal characteristics and behaviors in newborn babies, daily care, and child safety issues. Questions are encouraged.

Lamaze Series

This course includes ALL Delivery Awareness content plus helps couples learn relaxation techniques and other means for coping with labor and the birth of their baby. Participating in Lamaze classes will provide you with a number of techniques that you can use, combined with those of the medical professionals, to make the birth of your child a truly positive experience. Included in the series:

1. Detailed discussion of stages of labor and birth;
2. Variations to normal labor and birth;
3. On-site tour of LDRP's; and
4. Comfort measures, birth film, OB anesthesia, and pain medication.

Breastfeeding

This class is offered once every other month.  An informal group discussion includes: 

1. Joys and benefits of nursing; 
2. What to expect; 
3. Mechanics of breastfeeding; 
4. Managing common problems; and 
5. Breastfeeding and returning to work.