Based in Erie, MI. Traveling Education to surrounding areas.
Childbirth Class FAQ
Motherhood Naturally / Contact Sarah
Table of Contents
- Why should I take classes for childbirth?
- Why should I take your classes?
- What are the benefits of a natural labor and birth?
- What else can I do to learn? What books do you recommend?
- What if I can't afford to take classes?
Why should I take classes for childbirth?
Please don't make the mistake I did and assume that by reading a bunch of books you'll learn all you need to. You will learn a lot, and probably feel prepared, but reading books doesn't benefit you the same way a childbirth class would with demonstrations, teaching aids, video, and a teacher there to answer all of your personal questions and helping you with coping techniques. Your childbirth educator is not only the person you take classes from to learn - but also someone you can contact between classes or before/after your birth with questions or needing support.
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Why should I take your classes?
The childbirth class you choose to take depends on what your tastes are, what your location offers, and how much you are willing to pay.
My classes are 6 classes long (we can schedule them either weekly, bi weekly or more often depending on your needs), with classes about 2 hours long each. My childbirth education classes take after the midwifery model of childbirth, promoting natural labor/ birth, and informed choices. My classes are usually private, but group classes are available. This allows me to personalize the classes to your needs, and generally couples feel more comfortable in smaller or private classes and are more comfortable asking questions. I do not follow a specific childbirth technique such as Lamaze or Bradley. Instead I teach a variety of techniques to achieve a natural birth because what may work for someone may not work for someone else, and I'd hate for you to take my classes and be unsatisfied because the technique I presented to you didn't work well during your labor. I like to provide my students with many tools and techniques so if something doesn't work, they have more 'tools' to try.
As well I am available to answer your questions and concerns about your pregnancy, offer support and encouragement, and also just a listening ear when you need someone to talk to. After the birth of your baby I am still available for questions and concerns, and if need be a visit can be scheduled to address specific problems such as trouble with breastfeeding. Postpartum doula services are also available if you feel you may want additional regular help after the birth of your newest addition(s). References are always available when situations need a medical opinion or further assessment.
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What are the benefits of a natural labor and birth?
A drug free, natural vaginal birth has tremendous benefits to mother and baby. When drugs are taken to relieve pain, they will all cross the placenta quickly and have the potential to negatively effect the baby. There are no drugs deemed "safe" for the fetus. Side effects are frequent with both mother and fetus (including slowing or stopping labor), and range from mild to severe, temporary and permanent. Sometimes pain medication doesn't work effectively, and sometimes it doesn't work at all. Any time you use medication for pain relief you are putting yourself and your baby at risk for side effects, and you can never know if and how you may be effected. Some drugs carry less serious risks (pain medication is gone over during my classes to help you make an informed decision if you do decide to use medication). Before deciding that you will be using drugs during your labor, consider other natural ways to reduce pain. These are gone over thoroughly in my childbirth classes. This may include positioning, massage, reflexology, touch relaxation, etc.
A natural labor, free of unnecessary intervention, is an empowering, strengthening event. Empowering births help prevent against postpartum depression, and help mom bond quicker with her baby and also helps the start of successful breastfeeding. A baby who was born without any drugs will be alert right after birth - a great chance for bonding and breastfeeding. The mother who has not had any drugs will be able to get up and move around right after birth, to take a shower or just get up and stretch her legs before laying down to rest and start to recover.
However, when the benefit of pain relief outweighs the risk during labor, drug relief is something to consider. Whatever you choose, it is important that you make an INFORMED DECISION. My classes follow the midwifery model of care - part of that is teaching a variety of drug free ways to minimize pain and work with your body. But there are situations where pain relief may be desired or needed, and we discuss the benefits and risk of pain relief options so you are able to make informed decisions.
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What else can I do to learn? What books do you recommend?
In addition to offering childbirth education classes, I also offer related classes such as cloth diapering, newborn care, postpartum survival, intro to attachment parenting, breastfeeding and more. I offer a lending library of books to my students and clients, and the local libraries also have a selection of good books.
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What if I can't afford classes?
I will work on a sliding scale when needed. Occasionally I may be able to offer free services for those truly in need such as low income, single, or teen parents. Don't hesitate to contact me if you think you may qualify. I don't want the price of a childbirth education class to stand in the way of what could be a very empowering, healthy, absolutely spectacular event.
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Revised: May 12, 2007 .
