We are so excited to finally be offering Childbirth Classes in West Michigan! Our
next session begins Monday August 6th-Sept 17th (we won't meet Labor
Day) from 6:45-8:45pm and will be held at:
820 Monroe #333, Grand Rapids
MI
Please email: Kathy@sbsdoula.com to register!
Serenity Natural Childbirth Preparation
is phenomenal program that is unlike any other out there! We believe
that childbirth is a rite of passage, not a medical event. That every
birth is different; and that all parents should be aware of their
options for birth. That every couple should be supported and empowered
to make the most thoughtful decisions for their birth. We strongly
believe in the mind-body connection and that preparing you mentally,
emotionally and physically are key to a successful birth experience.
"Through
soul-searching and listening more deeply to the women I was working
with, I finally understood that women have to prepare their heart and
soul, not just their heard. And that giving birth is something that a
women does in her body, not in her head"
~Pam England
Here is what people are saying after taking our class:
"I now feel hopeful & excited about my upcoming birth!"
"I now feel determined to be in charge of my upcoming birth"
"I loved the openness of the discussion. It wasn't so formal that you couldn't ask questions"
"I have taken another childbirth class before and took this as a refresher---I was amazed at how much I learned!!"
"When
I started the class I felt nervous and alone. It really surprised me
that you ladies really seem to care! And I now feel so much better
about my upcoming birth!"
Classes will be limited to 5 couples. You will receive 6 workbooks
that include Prenatal Wellness, Thoughtful Decisions, The Birth Process,
Natural Childbirth, Finding Comfort, and following the Birth Process.
Class will run 1.5-2hours one night a week in downtown Grand Rapids.
6-week class outline:
Class 1: Introduction, Exercise and Nutrition
In our first class we will do introductions and get acquainted with
other class members. We will discuss attitudes and beliefs about birth
including cultural influences and begin to focus on ways to stay
positive. We will cover things that you can do to stay healthy and low
risk during pregnancy. We will introduce important pregnancy exercises
and go over the critical role of good nutrition during pregnancy. We
will also introduce ideas for relaxation and spend time practicing.
Class 2: Pregnancy and Labor Support
In this class we will look at anatomy and biology of pregnancy and the
many physiological changes that happen in a woman's body. We will
brainstorm ideas for handling pain during labor and cover the importance
of the partner's role in labor and delivery. We will explore and
practice various comfort measures for labor, including specific
techniques, ideas and tips for partners.
Class 3: Stages of Labor
This class is on how your body works during the first and second stages
of labor. We will provide an overall look at the characteristics of each
stage, and help partners brainstorm ways that they can determine the
stage of labor. We will discuss support techniques and the physical and
emotional signs of each stage. We will also name some ideas for
positions and comfort measures during the various stages, and will
briefly discuss third stage.
Class 4: Planning Your Birth and Preparing for the Unexpected
This class will focus on the many choices you have and on developing a
birth plan. We will discuss the importance of evaluating your feelings
and listing your priorities, and meeting with your medical team to
discuss your choices in a positive way. We will also discuss various
complications and how to avoid them. We will cover cesarean surgery and
how to evaluate whether it is necessary to intervene in the natural
labor process. We will also discuss how to handle other interventions
that become necessary.
Class 5: Active Labor Rehearsal and Final Labor Review
This class includes an active labor rehearsal, giving you a chance to
try out all kinds of positions, movements and techniques to put to use
in labor. We will spend time on questions, discussion and review of any
specific topics that need attention.
Class 6: Breastfeeding, Postpartum and Newborn Care
This class will be on breastfeeding basics: benefits, positions, latch,
how to tell if baby is getting enough, and more. We'll discuss the
postpartum period: what to expect physically and emotionally, and ideas
to ease the transition. We will go over standard hospital procedures for
newborns, as well as normal appearance, their needs and care, and
challenges you may face as new parents.
