Childbirth Classes

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Bath BabySpecific dates, times, and locations for the classes below can be found on our online Calendar of Classes. Please register by the beginning of your 3rd trimester and at least one week before the class begins by emailing childbirth@vvmc.com. Our classes are limited in size and often fill up.  

Childbirth Classes
This comprehensive, four-week class helps couples prepare for the birth process and parenthood.  Class topics include: nutrition, pregnancy exercises, anatomy, stages of labor, relaxation & breathing techniques, assisted deliveries, medication options, baby care, breastfeeding, the postpartum experience and a tour of the Women and Children’s Center.

Fast Track Childbirth
The Fast Track Childbirth class replaces the traditional four-week class with two sessions. This class is meant to fit the busy schedules of some parents. The same labor and birth material that is covered in the Childbirth Classes is consolidated into two- three-hour sessions. Please register by the beginning of your 3rd trimester. Our classes are limited in size and do fill up.

Natural Birth Seminar
This one-time, two hour seminar is for expectant parents who are considering an unmedicated birth and should be taken as a supplement to the Childbirth Classes. The class emphasizes coping with labor. Techniques such as using massage, movement, rhythmic breathing, aromatherapy, visualizations and music are discussed. The seminar also reviews laboring positions and the second stage of pushing positions taught in the Childbirth Classes.

Breastfeeding Class
This 1½ hour class is designed to help pregnant women learn the techniques and possible challenges of breastfeeding. Topics include the benefits of breastfeeding, positioning, latch-on, establishing your milk supply, how to know if baby is getting enough milk, pumping, returning to work, and much, much more! It is best to take this class one month prior to your due date and after any childbirth classes.

“I Love My Sibling” Class
Prepare your child for the arrival of his/her new brother or sister! This class is designed to prepare your child for the upcoming changes in your family. This one-hour session is filled with fun activities and discussions to let kids feel good about being a big sister or brother.  Children will have a chance to tour where their sibling will be born, meet the nurses, practice holding a doll, and learn how they can help with a new baby. 

Baby Care Class
This two-hour class is meant for expecting parents or parents who have just had their baby. Geared toward infants less than one month old, class topics will include: general care, weight loss and gain, sleep patterns, skin care, umbilical cord care, circumcision care, bathing, finger nails care, baby's environment at home and special winter and summer care. Parents will learn about babies' reflexes and senses and how to keep their babies safe (SIDS, back to sleep, shaken baby syndrome, car seat safety, warning signs and reportable symptoms). We encourage parents to bring their newborn with them (if not pregnant still).

Baby and Me Class
Parents are encouraged to meet other parents, develop friendships, talk about their babies' milestones, discuss breastfeeding or other concerns and celebrate triumphs at the weekly Baby and Me Class in Edwards.

Private and refresher classes are also available. 

Testimonials
"This class met my expectations by going over what to expect during labor and answering any questions we had along the way." - Pregnant Mother

"I feel more educated in the remaining months of pregnancy. I didn't know about a lot of the topics we were going over and now I feel more informed and better about the rest of my pregnancy. We really enjoyed the class. Thanks!" - Pregnant Mother and Her Labor Partner

"I really enjoyed the class. It made me very aware of my choices." - Pregnant Mother
 

Childbirth Classes