Congratulations to the graduates of the Fall series! The next session will begin January 14th, 2016.
Group Thoughtful Childbirth Classes
The day you give birth is one of the most important days of your life. Thoughtful Childbirth classes are comprehensive, evidence-based, and designed for giving birth in Central PA. Know the options, know the techniques, and get excited for your birth!
We cover:
* ways to stay healthy and low risk in pregnancy
* the stages of birth: what to expect and what to do
* optimal fetal positioning and how you can assist it
* how Partners can be active supporters in pregnancy and birth
* the influence of care provider, location of birth, and birth interventions on the birth process
* communicating and creating a positive, trusting, relationship with care providers
* unexpected situations and how to move through them
* creating birth and newborn preferences as a family
* numerous comfort measures for birth
* effective positions and techniques for different phases of birth
* postpartum norms for mother, baby, and the new family
* beginning breastfeeding
No more than 6 client pairs creates a intimate community; you will have other women and partners with the same concerns and similar experiences with whom to share thoughts. Group discussion and activities enable better retention of material, and friendships can develop that last years into the future.
FAQs
What method of childbirth class is this?
This independent class is designed using the most current evidence-based birth information available and examines every angle of choices in childbirth. The instructor has direct experience with multiple methods, and is able to teach you have to utilize the best tools from each. Staying independent also means that information isn't biased towards any particular birth place or care provider.
I think I want to have an unmedicated birth. Is this a "natural" childbirth class?
Taking the time and effort to prepare mentally, emotionally, and physically for giving birth pays off! All birthing preferences are welcome. This class strives to present an extensive and diverse list of non-medical comfort measures to help you give birth your way.
I think I may want medication. Why should I bother with a class?
Because there is a lot more to giving birth than whether or not to use anesthesia! Learn how to minimize risks and maximize the benefits of any choice.
But won't the care providers tell me what to do?
They don't teach you ways to be comfortable until dilated enough to be admitted, prepare your support person to be most effective, or....tell you what to do. They may present you with options, but it's not easy to absorb and evaluate information while having a baby. Get educated before it's time for L&D.
When are classes?
Each three-hour class begins at 6:30 on Thursday evening. Each session is eight weeks. 2016 sessions are tentatively scheduled to begin on the following dates:
January 14
March 17
May 19
What's included in the fee?
Twenty-four hours of the most extensive instruction, five workbooks, numerous handouts, a comfort guide to take with you to your birth, area resource lists, and access to my extensive lending library are valued at $225
Who should I bring?
Anyone! Bring yourself and any support people you wish to have with you for your birth
Why should I take THIS class?
More instructional hours, more techniques, smaller class sizes, and highly satisfied clients who speak for themselves on the Testimonials page.
When should I start? How do I register?
Pregnant women and their birth partners should begin somewhere between 24-30 weeks in order to get the greatest benefit from the education and techniques.
Private Thoughtful Childbirth Classes
Taught privately in your home, we meet during times that are convenient for you. If you have a busy schedule, want to have personalized lessons, or are on bed rest, this is the class for you. It can be tailored to your unique need and time frame.
This class includes study guides that are yours to keep. Classes are 2-3 hours each and usually 4 lessons to complete, depending upon your schedule. The fee for this class is $295.
Email me at statecollegedoula (at) gmail {dot} com to register today!
~As with my doula services, I believe the information and empowerment you receive by taking a birth class is invaluable to you as a mother. If finances present an obstacle to achieving an education, please contact me to discuss alternate arrangements.
