Childbirth Preparation: Everything You Need to Know

“Whitman Glen Newland was born Saturday, March 12th at 8:46 p.m. at Henry Ford Hospital in West Bloomfield, MI. He clocked in a 6 pounds, 1 ounce and 20 inches, sporting a full head of black hair. Janae powered through 17 hours of drug-free labor and Whitman scored 9/9 on his Apgar (we’re so proud of our little achiever). Thanks again Patty and Alicia, we had the confidence to do this as a team and our birth plan really worked out!” — LeRoy and Janae Newland

2012 Schedule & Fees

  • 7 Wednesdays, 6:30–8:45pm, June 6–July 18
  • 7 Wednesdays, 6:30–8:45pm, September 12–October 24
  • 7 Tuesdays, 6:30–8:45pm, October 30–December 11

Fee $240 per couple; discount for multiple classes

REGISTER FOR THIS CLASS

Overview

Birth is normal and you can do it! This series provides a community of expectant parents who come together to learn about childbirth and explore related topics in preparation for giving birth. Emphasis is placed on developing confidence in a woman’s natural capacity to give birth, comfort measures and labor support techniques, how partners can help, alternatives to drugs, and cesarean prevention. Birth videos, lending library, resources, referrals, and more are available.

Don’t put yourself in a box with Hypnobirthing, Lamaze, or other brands! We have gleaned what works best from all of the “method” approaches!

Topics include:

  • re-programming negative cultural images of birth
  • herbal teas for pregnancy
  • optimal nutrition for a healthy pregnancy
  • basic anatomy and physiology of pregnancy
  • early labor–what to expect, what to do
  • exploring our fears
  • active labor–what to expect, how to cooperate with the process
  • moving through labor–finding your rhythm
  • pain coping practice–conscious relaxation and breath awareness
  • emotional support and creating a safe environment
  • pushing the baby out–positioning for 2nd stage
  • comfort measures and labor support–the partner’s role
  • pain coping practice–blending relaxation and non-focused awareness
  • medical interventions in birth–benefits, risks, and alternatives
  • creating a birth plan
  • the first few hours after birth–what to expect
  • bringing baby home
  • postpartum recovery and adjustment
  • baby blues and postpartum depression

Click here for Frequently Asked Questions about the Center’s childbirth preparation programs.

Read about the Mission Statement and Core Values that form the foundation of the Center’s curricula.

Read what our customers have to say:

“I feel so prepared for my birth. I didn’t expect the class to be so enjoyable. I thought it would just be breathing and positions only (television birthing classes image). I was sad to see the last day!!” — Sharita Fouche, Ypsilanti, MI

“Came into the course not knowing what to expect. Left the course confident in our choices, excited about our journey, and with new friends to share it with…. will definitely recommend this course to others.” — Steven Clausnitzer, Ypsilanti, MI

“I left this series of classes feeling incredibly informed, empowered, and confident about our future birth experience. I highly recommend these classes to all first time expectant parents!” — Kristin Lord, Howell, MI

“My experience in the class mirrored my pregnancy–full of different emotions–primarily joy and fear, but gradually feeling reassured and increasingly confident by the end.” — Emily Pingel, Ann Arbor, MI

“Professional and friendly, warm atmosphere … balanced loads of data with great, useful anecdotes. Huge help.” — Scott Sanders, Ann Arbor, MI

“The class made me feel very prepared but it also provided a safe place every week so IF I had a question or concern, I knew I could ask. I also loved being able to check out materials. What a wonderful experience!” — Yvonne Mato, Howell, MI

“We loved our class. It was helpful, informational, and fun; we actually looked forward to going.” — Daniel Hamilton, Ann Arbor, MI

“Alicia did a great job. She is very knowledgeable, enthusastic and kept the class interesting and applicable. I feel much more aware, as a partner. of what to expect.” — Mike Taylor, Ann Arbor, MI”

“By the end of the classes, I fel a lot calmer and more prepared for my baby’s birth. It was a great thing to do with my partner.” — Stella Resko, Ann Arbor, MI

Moms and babies reunite at a couple of months and at one year

Stacy & Tobin, Leslie & Reece, Janea & Whitman, Theresa & Ava, Andrea & Izzy

Stacy & Tobin, Andrea & Izzy, Leslie & Reece, Theresa & Ava, Mandy & Nelson

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