***Please go to the bottom of this page for scheduled classes, locations, and registration***

                                                                                      CHILDBIRTH EDUCATION CLASSES
                                                                           


    These classes are founded on the principle that couples can have a more memorable and positive birth experience
    with proper prenatal education and preparation.  Childbirth education empowers an expecting couple with knowledge, thus reducing
    fear of the unknown during labor and childbirth.  

    This program series involves seven weeks of instruction and discussion on the current issues of pregnancy, birth, and
    postpartum period.  These include prenatal exercises that condition and tone the body in preparation for birth; nutrition and its effect
    on the growing fetus; stages of labor and how to work with each to produce the most efficient labor; medical interventions and
    cesarean sections and how to avoid one; breastfeeding basics; and your new baby.

    Because labor coaching is paramount to natural childbirth success, time is spent in each class learning and practicing coaching
    techniques. A prepared coach knows what to expect in labor and is better able to support their partner's ability to birth normally.
    The presence of an effective labor coach not only reduces the need for medical interference, but also increases the couple's
    satisfaction with their birth experience.  I have gone through extensive birth educator training and I am required to adhere to the
    highest educational standards.  

    Contact me today to register for your Natural Childbirth class, and get started on the road to a healthy mother, healthy baby, and a
    healthy family!

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                                                                                                   COURSE CONTENT

    Every class has a specific topic which is covered in detail.  Each class will cover nutrition, exercise, positive communication, and
    coaching.  A different relaxation technique will be demonstrated and assigned for practice each week.  Classes may also feature a
    film or video presentation, speaker, or an art project.  This course outline is for a 7 course series.  For private couples, the number of
    classes can be adjusted to accommodate individual schedules or learning styles.  

    Class 1.  Introduction

    This class deals with birth philosophy and goals.  It is a time to get to know me and the members of your class.  During
    this class, we will begin to study ways you can keep yourself healthy and how to maintain a low risk pregnancy.  We will introduce
    important pregnancy exercises as well as discuss ways to maintain the best nutrition for you and your baby during pregnancy.  

    Class 2.  Pregnancy

    This class discusses changes that your body goes through during pregnancy; discussion of anatomy and physiology in pregnancy, as
    well as common discomforts and how to handle them.  This is helpful for the coach creating awareness and understanding.  We will
    discuss some of the many choices you may be exposed to during labor and birth.

    Class 3.  The Coach’s Role

    Focusing on pregnancy and childbirth from the coach’s point-of-view; this session discusses coaching during labor and the importance
    of natural childbirth and its effect on bonding.  Various medical interventions including drugs and their use during birthing and the pro's
    and con's of each will be discussed.

    Class 4.  Stages of Labor

    This class encourages techniques for basic coaching and instructs how to practice as a couple together at home.  We will cover the
    natural alignment plateau, and the fetal heimlich manuever.  Basic pushing options and positions will also be discussed.

    Class 5.  Planning Your Birth

    Class five covers consumer information and how to make a birth plan that is right for you.  We will discuss what your choices are, the
    importance of evaluating your feelings and listing your priorities, and meeting with your medical team to discuss your choices in a positive
    way.  There is an extensive labor rehearsal in this class.

    Class 6.  Variations in Labor, Medications

    Focus is on learning about variations in labor and how your baby's positioning affects labor and labor outcomes.  This class is an
    introduction to doulas and how they can benefit your birth experience.

    Class 7.  Preparing for Your New Family

    This class teaches about newborn care, mothering, fathering, breastfeeding and its benefits, how to handle a crying baby, and adjusting
    to the many changes you will face postpartum both in the hospital, and at home.  


    For information on how to register for your natural childbirth class, please contact Kelly at (952) 212-8634; or email her for more
    information at babydoulateacher@yahoo.com.  

                            *   Cost for each 7-week class is $200.00 per couple; which includes all student supplies.

                                  
                                             
   
CHILDBIRTH EDUCATIONAL SERIES