Comprehensive Childbirth Preparation Classes
Childbirth classes are a great way to prepare for labor and birth. The typical class consists of lectures, discussions, and exercises, all led by a trained childbirth instructor.
The goal is to provide you with information to prepare for childbirth, help you make decisions, and minimize your fears. You also learn techniques to help you relax & cope with labor.
Classes range from courses that begin early in pregnancy and continue through the postpartum period to one-shot refresher sessions.
Childbirth classes generally cover some of the more common childbirth complications and how they might be handled. Most show videos of both a vaginal birth and a c-section.
Look for a class that covers:
- The signs of labor
- The normal progress of labor & birth
- Techniques for coping with pain
- How your partner/support person can help you during labor
- When to call your doctor or midwife
The Birth Plan Workshop ®
The Birth Plan Workshop is an AWC exclusive class developed specifically for AWC patients but anyone is invited to attend. Join our workshop and learn how to clarify your goals for your birth experience and write an effective birth plan that will help you have an amazing experience even if your delivery goes a little differently than expected. In this class we will discuss options for a normal labor and birth, waterbirth, options for complicated deliveries, inductions and c-sections and the immediate care of your new baby. Whether you are planning a “Hospital Homebirth” or a scheduled Cesarean or something in between, come and explore what options you can put in your birth plan to make your experience the best it can be. Together we will create a birth plan that includes what you want during labor and delivery as well as during the immediate postpartum period. Check out AWC’s standard “Hospital Homebirth” birthing plan.
Here We Go Again: A Refresher Course for Experienced Parents
This is a one-time, 2 hour class for experienced parents who have taken childbirth preparation classes in the past and would like to take a refresher course.
Due to the interactive nature of this class, parents are encouraged to share the story of their prior birth(s), discuss the ways this birth may be different from the one/s before, and explore what they can do to help in the labor progress and have a beautiful birth.
Breastfeeding Classes
Like any new skill, breastfeeding takes practice and support to be successful. Pregnant women who learn how to breastfeed are more likely to be successful than those who do not. Breastfeeding classes offer pregnant women and their partners the chance to prepare and ask questions before the baby's arrival. Classes are offered through Hollywood Presbyterian Medical Center (check Special Deliveries calendar for dates), and breastfeeding support programs like La Leche League, or local lactation consultants.
