Childbirth Education Classes

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Some birth experiences that require special preparation are as follows:

Waterbirth: At the Women's Pavilion we believe that waterbirth is a safe birthing alternative. We have a special tub for planned waterbirth. Although there are tubs in each room, this large tub is more conducive to a waterbirth. We encourage women to use the smaller tubs for comfort during labor. If you think waterbirth is a style of birthing that you are interested in, please talk to your midwife or physician. You will be asked to watch a video, discuss the pros and cons of this choice at length, and sign a special consent form prior to the start of your labor.

Cesarean Birth: We believe that whether unplanned or planned, a cesarean birth is still a special birth of a child. We try to make this experience as safe and satisfying as possible for the mother and her family. In a true emergency, sometimes many things are happening all at once and it can be quite frightening. We try to have one nurse or staff person with you at all times. We also think it is very important to keep the father and other support persons involved and well-informed about what is happening. When the cesarean is planned (or a non-emergency), as you are being readied for surgery, the support person who will accompany you is also getting dressed. That support person will rejoin you once anesthesia is in place and we are ready to start the surgery. We try to create a soothing atmosphere by doing such things as dimming non-essential lights, using aromatherapy for relaxation, playing soothing music, talking softly when baby is born, and allowing mom and dad to hold the baby as long as is feasible.

5-Week Childbirth Preparation Class: This class gives comprehensive information and instruction about late pregnancy, labor, birth, and the immediate postpartum period. Along with several videos, time is used to discuss dealing with fears and to teach a variety of comfort measures to support a woman in labor. We also review use of medication in labor, the birthing environment at St. Mary’s, common protocols, waterbirth, newborn care, and possible interventions like Cesarean births. Healthy Families usually visits to discuss community support programs for new parents and we do a tour of the Birthing Center.

2-Day Childbirth Class: The 2-day class is an abbreviated version of the 5-week class. The focus is on helping you through labor and birth. Due to time constraints, we do not cover several topics such as waterbirth, newborn and postpartum care. We do cover several labor comfort measures and offer an optional tour of the Birthing Center at the end of the Saturday class. This would also be a great refresher class for parents having another child.

Prenatal Yoga: The 5-week class is a program geared for women in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy.  Heidi L. Haypes-Audet, R.Y.T., will gently guide expectant mothers through this class where they willl earn postures and breathing techniques to invite deep relaxation, conquer fatigue, stretch, strengthen, and prepare their changing bodies for childbirth.  Students will also have an introduction to a guided meditation practice.  Preregistration is required.  No prior yoga experience is necessary. 

Early Parenting/Bonding: This class is open to all expecting parents. We share helpful tips on bonding with your baby, while developing an awareness of your baby’s needs. We discuss general parenting issues, such as managing your baby’s crying and sleeping, and show a video that explains the growth and development of your baby’s amazing brain from birth to 3 years old. Parents will learn new skills and parenting wisdom to better communicate and meet their baby’s needs.

Sibling Class: This class is designed for children ages 3 and older. They will learn a little bit about the anatomy of where babies live and grow. We will talk about what to expect after the baby is born and what is so special about being an older brother or sister. We show a video, practice holding a baby doll, diapering, and blanket-wrapping. We end the class with a tour of where their new baby will be born.

Hypnobirthing Class: Hypnobirthing is a philosophy and technique for childbirth that supports and teaches women how to deeply relax and reduce fear and anxiety around labor. It utilizes techniques such as guided imagery, visualization, breathing, touch, and music to help induce a state of mind to transcend common discomforts. Women will see birth from a positive and empowering perspective as they read the Hypnobirthing book and listen to the CD. Practicing the technique from about halfway through pregnancy is recommended, so early sign-up is encouraged.

Breastfeeding Class: We recommend this class before the baby is born. We’ll present important information you’ll need to know about breastfeeding and how to incorporate it into your life. You will learn how to latch your baby to breast after birth and we’ll show a video on babies’ instinctual wisdom. Dads will also learn how to support the mom and baby for a successful breastfeeding experience. Community resources will also be discussed.

Breastfeeding Support Group: This group is a walk-in opportunity for parents to meet and share experiences with other parents in an atmosphere supportive of breastfeeding. There is no set agenda and questions are welcome and encouraged.

CPR Class: You will learn basic skills for cardiac and respiratory resuscitation for infants, children, and adults. Choking management will also be taught. This is not a CPR certification class. It can be taken early in pregnancy or after the baby is born. You will need to be able to get onto the floor to practice with the mannequins.

Infant Safety Class: This class will touch on many aspects of safety awareness, SIDS, childproofing your home, and car seat safety. We’ll also show a video that will discuss many of these safety concerns.

Sibling at Birth Class: This class will be individually arranged with you when you call in. We will meet with you and your child to teach and discuss what happens during birth. We will also spend time listening to the child’s ideas, thoughts, and feelings about being at the birth to help you put a family birth plan together. A video of birth will be shown and a tour of the Birthing Center provided.

SafeSitter Class: This class is for 11- to 13- year-old girls and boys to learn how to become safe babysitters. This is a national curriculum with the motto of "Better sitters today, better parents tomorrow." Many skills are taught, including safety, choking prevention and treatment, first aid, and behavior management.