Classes

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There are many decisions to make when it comes to preparing for birth.  It's common to talk to friends and family members in search of advice, but a preparing mother can become inundated with conflicting opinions, belief systems, and cultural preferences.  Well-meaning friends and family may give unsolicited advice, and often fearful stories surface.  Social media platforms often offer a long list of "do's and dont's" when it comes to giving birth and present a narrow philosophy with a rigid agenda.

Authentic Birthing is the perfect class to help expectant parents  find their own unique birthing and parenting style, without judgment.  Our goal is to empower pregnant women and their primary birth partner with up-do-date, evidence-based information. The class encourages the understanding that you don't need to learn how to give birth.  Most times, in fact, if we knew none of the correct terminologies or had a long birth plan set in stone, our bodies would know how to give birth to our babies.

There are many variations of what is normal, and most expectant women don't give birth in textbook fashion.  We will explore birth and the many options that surround the birthing process.  We will encourage setting goals and preferences rather than having a set plan.  There is great value in remaining flexible both physically and emotionally during the child-bearing year.

Topics covered:

• history of birth and birth methods
• anatomy of pregnancy and childbirth
• nutritional guidelines and suggestions
• stages of labor
• optimal positioning
• pushing positions
• pain medication options
• questions to ask your doctor or midwife
• choosing your birth team and communication skills
• typical labor progress and warning signs
• when things don't go as you had envisioned
• routine medical interventions and necessary medical actions
• comfort measures and working with your body and baby
• doula support
• postpartum recovery

We will help you navigate this amazing journey, build your confidence and reduce fear-based decisions and beliefs.  Birth is a tremendous life transition and  can be an empowering, positive experience.  Our goal  is to celebrate this milestone in life and not merely survive it.

This class is offered privately to couples or in a group setting. Private classes can be tailored specifically to your needs and time frame.  They can be offered in the comfort of your own home or in our office.

Private classes are held on 2 separate days or three-hour sessions.

Group classes meet for 6 1/2 hours and are limited to small, intimate groups.

Live virtual version meets for four hours in two sessions, privately or in a group setting.

This class is perfect for those who want to supplement a basic childbirth education course or have experienced birth and would like a refresher course.  Whether you desire an unmedicated birth or plan on using pain medication, this class will cover all the necessary tools to help the laboring woman and her primary birth partner have the physical and emotional tools to help guide them through the labor process.

Tools covered:

• Breathing
• Relaxation / visualization / meditation
• Optimal positioning for labor ease
• Use of essential oils
• Massage techniques
• Accupressure
• Use of water
• Sense awareness
• Emotional support and listening
• Validation/acceptance
• Movement, sound, and lighting
• Use of tools: Rebozo, birthing balls, squatting stools, etc.

Offered as a private or group class.  Three hours.

Live virtual version meets for two hours in one session.

This course is intended for expectant parents who are looking for gentle guidance, support, and information about breastfeeding and getting off to the right start.  Partners will learn how they can be most supportive and play a vital role in the success of the breastfeeding relationship.

Topics covered:

• Why is breastfeeding the preferred feeding choice for baby and mom?
• How can the partner play a role in the process?
• What influences a mother and a family's decision to breastfeed?
• How can you make this decision work for you?
• How can you take a relaxed approach to parenting and breastfeeding?
• How can you promote baby's natural instincts and the mother's natural tendencies in the initiation of breastfeeding?
• What are the basics?  Learn about latch positioning, different holds, recognizing feeding cues, signs that the baby has had enough, and ways to help with discomfort.

Other topics include breast pump selection, pumping strategies, and returning to work away from the baby.

Offered as a private or group class. Two hours.

Live virtual version meets for one and a half hours in one session.

Learn the basics of soothing and caring for your infant. Feel confident and trusting of your natural parenting instincts.  

Topics covered:

• Recognizing normal newborn cues and appearances 
• Bathing
• Swaddling
• Diapering options
• Baby wearing

Infant massage is best implemented starting from the first day of life.  You will learn a simple routine that enhances bonding, digestion, and helps to establish sleep patterns and routines.

Massage is a loving, gentle way to nurture and comfort your baby.  

Offered as a private or group class.  Two hours.

Live virtual version meets for one and a half hours in one session.

Private, live virtual infant massage instruction is available once baby arrives.