Childbirth Education Class

Click here to register for the class!

We’re so excited to offer some limited-time educational classes to prepare and encourage you for labor and delivery! Please read more below… we hope you’ll consider investing in this with us.

“There is a secret in our culture, and it’s not that birth is painful. It’s that women are strong.”

—Laura Stavoe Harm

Are you planning to welcome a little one into the world soon? Do you wish you knew more about pregnancy or the process of childbirth as it approaches?

It’s our experience that mommas and parents who approach their labor and birth with resources and information at their hands experience more peace and more success in having a fulfilling and safe birth! Knowing how your body functions and understanding that is truly designed for reproduction and parenting brings with it a sense of confidence and readiness to face the challenges (and blessings!) of labor and delivery.

We’ve written this childbirth preparation class to encourage and prepare you for the final months of your pregnancy, the birth itself, and even the transition to early parenthood. Led by midwives with a unique range of experiences in birth settings and deliveries, these classes will cover many topics and encourage you to take an individualized approach to your pregnancy and birth, guided by an understanding of what options (and alternatives) are available to you.

You will learn about the three stages of labor, how to manage pain with practical tips, relaxation and breathing exercises, common medical interventions to be mindful of (in both the hospital and home birth settings), breastfeeding basics, newborn care, and postpartum adjustment. We will participate together with you in group interactive discussions, hands-on activities to familiarize yourself with common choices and scenarios that may arise, and visual aids. We are also excited to share some free resource handouts, including a suggested “hospital bag” packing list!

We want to provide you with a supportive space to share your past experiences, fears or excitements about your upcoming birth, and any concerns or questions that may be answered to give you confidence in your decisions as parents. Our hope is also to connect local parents with each other, as we know that knowing those in the community brings a sense of peace and will allow you to experience more joy on your journey to and through parenthood and other stages of life.

Ultimately, we hope to equip and empower you as expectant parents with the knowledge, confidence, and skills you need to navigate the transformative experience of childbirth and early parenthood with greater joy and preparedness.

Register now for classes in June!

FAQs

1. Why should I consider taking a childbirth education class?

  • Childbirth education classes offer valuable information and practical skills to help you feel more confident and prepared for the birthing process and beyond! You can ask questions, learn from experienced instructors, and connect with other expectant parents!

2. When is the best time to take a childbirth education class?

  • It is typically recommended to start classes in the second trimester of pregnancy to allow enough time to complete the course before your due date, while still giving you ample time to absorb the information and practice techniques learned in class. We welcome your participation at any stage, but especially the 3rd trimester, as this class is done in two longer sessions, instead of multiple shorter class dates.

3. What topics are typically covered in a childbirth education class?

  • Topics covered include:
    • Understanding the stages of labor and childbirth
    • Breathing and relaxation techniques
    • Pain management options, including both natural and allopathic methods
    • Positioning and movement during labor
    • Medical interventions and procedures
    • Cesarean birth
    • Newborn care basics
    • Breastfeeding techniques and support (with a guest lactation consultant to answer your questions!)
    • Postpartum recovery and adjustment

4. How long do the classes usually last?

  • Classes can vary in length, but we are allowing 4 hours for each day (10am to 2pm) with down time part-way through to eat, enjoy a walk, or talk with other parents. There is also a coffee shop (The Outpost) on campus to enjoy a coffee, tea, or snack/lunch option!

5. Who is teaching the classes?

  • Anna Sackett, a Certified Professional Midwife and Doula (and owner of Rooted Midwifery Co.)
  • Linda Collins, a retired Certified Nurse Midwife
  • and Cassie Brickey, an RN and Certified Lactation consultant (she will be joining us on June 29th to share about breastfeeding and answer questions!)

6. Can partners or support persons attend childbirth education classes?

  • Yes! We strongly encourage partners or support persons (such as your mom or sister) to attend with you. Having a supportive partner or companion present during the class can enhance the learning experience for both of you and equip them to provide valuable support during the labor and birth.

7. Are childbirth education classes covered by insurance?

  • While we hope to offer this option in the future, our classes aren’t currently covered by insurance. We hope you’ll consider it a worthy investment in your journey! Please reach out if you have more questions regarding finances.

8. What should I bring to a childbirth education class?

  • It’s a good idea to bring a notebook and pen to take notes, as well as any snacks or drinks you may need during the class. Wear comfortable clothing and consider bringing a pillow or cushion for added comfort during sitting or relaxation exercises. Write down any questions you may want answered during class time, too!

“The wisdom and compassion a woman can intuitively experience in childbirth can make her a source of healing and understanding for other women.”

—Stephen Gaskin