Classes Offered

Why should you take an independent birth class?  Hospital classes are often geared more toward teaching you to be a good patient rather than helping you make informed choices.  Even if you plan on having an epidural, did you know that there are at least 5 other automatic interventions associated with one?  Did you also know they sometimes don't work properly?  Nothing will be worse than finding yourself with a "broken" epidural and no preparation for other methods of pain management!

I do not teach any one "method", and some people often find this odd.  Rather than specializing in a specific "technique" that may or may not work for you, my classes are geared at offering you a wide range of coping techniques and allowing you to practice the ones that you think will work for you.  This also means my techniques will always be up-to date rather than the latest birthing fad.  If you end up in labor and find they aren't working, you then have a variety of others to help "back you  up"!




Preared Birth Package - Two Class Weekend Series

Class 1: Natural Childbirth Education
Saturday Class: Public - Also offered as a Private/Semi Private class
10:00am-5:00pm: Lunch break of 1 hour provided.

This is your natural alternative to classes offered at the hospital, but home/birth center moms, don't miss out!

My primary aim is to give you an understanding about the mechanics of labor, as well as a full and confidant view of what NORMAL labor and birth look like. 

Secondly, I aim to present you with your range of options in labor (both in and out of the hospital), as well as a full understanding of the benefits and consequences of each so that you can make a fully informed choice about your birth!  This class is completely based on the current medical and scientific evidence within the field and will include:   
o Stages of labor, delivery, what to expect postpartum, breast feeding, and baby care.
o Tools for talking to your caregivers and how to make assertive and informed decisions.
o Routine procedures, reasons for them and possible side effects
o Overview of interventions commonly used in labor - including pain relief and medical procedures, reasons for them and possible side effects.
o Overview of non-intervention (natural) birth including: VBAC (Vaginal Birth After Cesarean), alternatives to routine procedures, and suggestions for dealing with difficult situations.

Class 2: Natural Childbirth Preparation
Sunday Class: Public - Also offered as a Private/Semi Private class
1:00pm-8:00Pm: 1 Hour Dinner
Break Provided.

Learn details on preparing yourself and your partner for labor.  Practice makes perfect!

This class can be attended at any time during your pregnancy, but earlier is better! (From 25 – 30 weeks being optimum for adequate practice time). I highly encourage you to bring your birth partner (spouse, mother, friend, or possibly your doula) as there will be much he/she needs to know and practice with you.  The goal of this class is to prepare those wanting a natural birth with tools and techniques that will aid them in relaxation and confidence for a peaceful, natural birth!

Some of the topics in this class include:
o A continued look into normal birth
o Info on healthy living – A healthy labor and easier delivery begins with healthy living!
o Guided relaxation – Learn how to relax your body AND mind to better work with your body as you labor.
o Benefits of concentration, music, focus, prayer/meditation.
o List of positions/practice getting into and out of them
o Birth Partner preparation – Yes, you need it too!
o Doulas – The expert birth attendants!
o The Placenta! – Learn why so many cultures revere this organ and how it can change your life!




Refresher/Support Class:
Evening class: Private/semi private only
Are you a second time natural birth mom who just wants a little refresher?  How about a first time mom who feel like you need just a little extra support?

This class is one of my favorites, because it's the class I get to truly tailor to fit the individual needs of the mother and her birth partner.  Mothers who need just a little extra support can come and ask questions, get answers, and discuss options for their birth.

Mothers who are giving birth for the second (third... fourth... fifth...  ...) times get the truly exciting experience of creating the birth they want by taking advantage of their previous birth experiences and my own continuing education!  as I build on my own experience I'm constantly able to add new information and coping techniques to my knowledge base.  Come grow with me, and let your birth be positively affected as we discuss your previous birth experiences and begin to delve deeper into the world of birth!

Bring all final questions with you and receive one-on-one attention as we discuss last minute fears, concerns, questions, and labor coping practice!  (This is a private/semi private class only and applicable fees will apply accordingly).


• Breast Feeding Encouragement/Support

One hour phone call: $10
Every mom worries at some point about her milk supply, and getting help quickly is vital for a continued and long lasting breastfeeding relationship.  I am not a lactation consultant, but I am a mom who has successfully breastfed three children and I am a birth educator with training and resources!  I'd love to chat with you, offer advice and encouragement, and help point you toward further resources if you need them!  Give yourself peace of mind, call me today!
*Payment can be made through Paypal and must be received before your scheduled call.  Thank you.





Note
Above is a list of general topics discussed at each class. If you have a specific subjects or questions you’d like me to talk about please email them to me ahead of time so I can be sure to cover those topics thoroughly!
Saturday/ day long intensive classes will be between 6-8 hours (depending on participation and size of the group). There will be breaks for lunch/bathroom but please bring quiet snacks and water bottles.
Currently child care will not be provided. Please do not bring your children to meetings or classes. For private classes please plan to have someone (not your birth partner) who can keep them entertained so you can focus.
If you have to leave a class early, your fee will not be refunded (though it can be transferred to another class).  It will be up to you to finish your class before you have your baby.