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Childbirth Education (For Refresher Class Info. click here)
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Independent Childbirth Group
Class Dates 2008 Tuesdays (each series runs for 6 consecutive weeks) 6:30-9:30 pm Series #1--Runs Feb. 26-Apr. 1 Series #2--Runs May 20-June 24 Series #3--Runs Aug. 19-Sept. 23 Series #4--Runs Nov. 4-Dec. 9 Held in Roanoke/Blue Ridge Rt. 460 area *A group class consists of 3-5 couples. Tuition is $100 for non-doula clients and $60 for doula clients. To register for the series, you may either print off the registration form and mail it or "copy and paste" in an email to me. kristen_tt@yahoo.com If you have questions or would like to schedule another group or private series, you may contact me by the above email or call 977-3726. |
Why should I choose an independent childbirth class?
Independent classes are perfect for hospital or home delivering clients.
Independent childbirth educators work for YOU--not the hospital or providers. Independent educators will facilitate thought and discussions (about choices available to you outside of the "routine") in order to help initiate your research process. This will enable you to base your decisions and preferences on true informed consent.
Independent childbirth educators incorporate a variety of childbirthing methods (ie. Lamaze, Bradley, etc.) utilizing the beneficial components of each.
Class sizes are usually smaller. Most independent educators take a maximum of 4-5 couples, not 10-12 like many hospital courses. This allows for a greater intimacy in the group, more openness in discussion, and greater flexibility for the instructor to cater to each of the couples' needs.
Private classes are available upon request with many independent educators; this allows the instructor to come to you and work around your schedule. Private classes also address the issues relevant to the couple and give the couple an opportunity to ask questions without inhibitions.
An independent childbirth class is the best investment you can make in cesarean prevention!
What will be taught in these classes?
Whereas the classes could vary somewhat depending on couples' needs, you will learn:
How to determine which birth setting is best for you--home, hospital, or birth center
How to choose which types of caregivers you would like to attend your birth
How to understand and work with the physical and emotional changes of pregnancy, birth, and the postpartum period
How to be informed about the options available to you in a hospital birth
How to choose foods and exercises for a healthy pregnancy
How to write a personal birth plan to communicate with your caregiver about the birth you desire
How to prepare for a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC)
What is a doula? How to determine if a doula is right for your family
How to use a range of relaxation and comfort techniques during labor
How certain positions can help make labor more comfortable
How to be informed about the benefits and risks of interventions
How to avoid unnecessary cesareans and other interventions
How you can remain empowered even when interventions are required
How to care for yourself and your baby after the birth
How to contact resources in your community for support with breastfeeding, postpartum and newborn care
(ALACE--Association of Labor Assistant and Childbirth Educators)
For more detailed class breakdown click here
I am currently a Childbirth Educator through ALACE (Association of Labor Assistants and Childbirth Educators). I offer independent childbirth classes specializing in natural childbirth. The ultimate goal of my natural childbirth classes, however, is to stimulate thoughts and discussion and to encourage you to research and become prepared for your birth--regardless of what decisions you and your partner make. TRUE informed consent is based on making the best choices with the most up to date information available--not just taking someone's word for it (your doctor/midwife OR your childbirth educator)!
For more information on childbirth classes in Roanoke, Virginia or surrounding areas, or if you have any questions, please give me a call at (540) 977-3726 or email at:
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Each class series has 6 classes. Group classes: Group classes consist of 3-5 couples. Series is 6 consecutive weeks. Each class is 3 hours in length. $100 per couple; Only $60 for doula clients (includes student book, handouts, and loan of a copy of "The Complete Book of Pregnancy and Childbirth" by Sheila Kitzinger)
Private classes: Private classes consist of 1-2 couples. Series is condensed into 2 sessions; these are often held on two Saturdays usually with 2 weeks between the sessions. (Sunday sessions are also available beginning in the afternoon.) Session one includes classes 1-3. Session two includes classes 4-6. Private sessions typically run 6-8 hours each session. $200 per couple; Only $120 for doula clients (includes student book, handouts, and loan of a copy of "The Complete Book of Pregnancy and Childbirth" by Sheila Kitzinger) **A deposit of half the tuition is required with your registration to hold your spot. The remaining tuition is due at the first class. |
Refresher Course
Refresher Courses (for those having been through birth before) are available to those who wish to brush up on:
Discussion, handouts, activities, and video viewing are to be expected in this one session, three hour class.
Fee: $25 per couple
