Childbirth & Infant Care Series - Value Package Session (Virtual)

About This Event

Our Childbirth and Infant Care classes prepare the expectant couple for the physical and emotional changes that occur during pregnancy and delivery. These classes include the role of the labor support person, anatomy, physiology, and an overview of labor. Breathing and relaxation techniques are taught, as well as comfort measures and pain control options.

Variations in labor and delivery, back labor, induction, and cesarean deliveries are discussed. The classes are taught by experienced childbirth instructors. The classes will prepare the mother and her support person for the challenges and joys of childbirth. We recommend that you register for classes mid-term in your pregnancy due to limited class space.

All seven classes are offered on Wednesday evenings. We recommend taking the full series and offer the convenience of choosing A – G OR D – G then A – C. You also have the option to choose either Childbirth OR the Infant Care Series. Full class details are listed below and registration is required.

Class A – Childbirth

  • Hospital pre-registration
  • Benefits of childbirth classes
  • Overview of labor experience
  • Birth preferences plan
  • Basic anatomy and physiology (terms heard during labor)
  • Stages of labor
  • Relaxation techniques
  • When to come to the hospital
  • What to bring to the hospital

Class B – Childbirth

  • Mind-body connection
  • Role of labor support person
  • Labor support practice
  • Breathing techniques
  • Comfort measures
  • Labor positions out of bed

Class C – Childbirth

  • Variations in Labor and Delivery
  • Pain Control Options
  • Induction
  • Fetal Monitoring
  • Operative Vaginal Delivery
  • Cesarean Birth
  • Immediate Postpartum Care
  • Birth Video

Class D – Breastfeeding
Taught by an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), this class focuses on establishing breastfeeding and avoiding common nursing-related difficulties. Topics include:

  • Benefits of Breastfeeding for Mom and Baby
  • Establishing Breastfeeding and Skin-to-Skin Contact
  • Babies’ Cues, Latching On, Feeding Frequency
  • Breastfeeding Positions
  • Partner’s Role
  • Working Mothers and Pumping for Baby

Class E – Postpartum Expectations and Realities of New Parents
Having a baby is a joyful occasion, but new parents are not always prepared for the changes in their daily routine, their emotions, or even their relationship. This class is designed to prepare parents for the changes that happen in their lives during and after birth. Topics include:

  • Delivery to Discharge
  • Your Physical and Emotional Changes
  • Finding Your New Normal
  • Recognizing Postpartum Depression and Anxiety
  • Community Support Services, including the Pathways Support Group

Class F – Care of Your Newborn
Newborns look so fragile and delicate that caring for them can be intimidating, especially the first time around! This class helps new parents learn and get comfortable with everyday baby care. Topics include:

  • Bathing Your Baby
  • First Hours/Days of Your Baby’s Life
  • Hospital Routines
  • Rashes, Jaundice, Crying
  • Burping, Swaddling, Diaper Care
  • Comfort Techniques for Baby
  • Newborn Sleep
  • Choosing Your Pediatrician

Class G – Home and Car Safety
This class covers important information on how to keep your baby safe at home and on the go. Topics include:

  • Buying Safe Toys
  • Baby-Proofing Your Home
  • Sensible and Safe Baby Equipment
  • Car Seats

For the entire series (all seven Childbirth and Infant Care classes) the cost is $280 per couple. The Childbirth Series (A – C) is $135 and the Infant Care Series (D – G) is $180. A Zoom link and instructions will be provided five days prior to the class.

Due to COVID-19, we are offering all classes virtually via Zoom. Once registered, you will receive a Zoom link five days prior to the class. Please email yana.harootunian-cox@mymarinhealth.org if you do not receive a link.

  • Registration Cost: Varies: $280 for all 7 classes, $135 for classes A-C only, $180 for classes D-G only.
  • Call 1-888-996-9644 to register!