Birth, Babies & Beyond - pregnancy, doula, post partum information

Choosing a childbirth class is as important and personal a task as deciding upon the name of your new child. Quality classes will give you the confidence and skills that are an important part of a safe, satisfying birth experience.

Bradley® classes are special in a number of ways. They:

Y Are based on the principle that birth is a natural physiological process in which a woman benefits from loving support

Y Encourage mothers to trust their bodies – emphasizing natural abdominal breathing and relaxation throughout labor

Y Emphasize good labor support techniques for a productive labor and a medically sound birth

Y Help couples find what is comfortable for them in labor

Y Train the labor support partner to help the mother cooperate with her body during labor and to give emotional support during this special time

Although there are many types of childbirth classes, they vary widely in content and effectiveness. Be sure to interview several teachers before signing up. If you are considering a hospital or adult education sponsored class, request that the teacher call you for an interview. Here are some questions to ask:

How large are the classes?

The Bradley Method® recommends a maximum of 6-8 couples per class. Classes are small and intimate, allowing personalized attention, making it easier to get all your questions answered.

Do you attend births?

Bradley® Instructors often attend births on a regular basis. By attending births as a labor support person, the teacher gains valuable experience they are able to share with their students.

What percentage of your students have unmedicated births and what is the cesarean section rate?

The majority of Bradley® students do not require pain medication during labor. They also have cesarean section rates well below the 25% average. Understanding that pregnancy and birth are normal events in a healthy woman, Bradley®-trained couples approach their birth experience with the skills and self-confidence that help them cope with the many individual variations in labor.

Maureen's Birth Classes

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