Birth and Beyond: Childbirth Education

From Our Patients “This class greatly reduced my anxiety. We learned what our options are and how to make plans for our birth.” – Expectant mom Read more

Learning about pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum and newborn care begins with your first doctor's visit and continues through your hospital stay and beyond. In addition to the in-hospital teaching provided by our specialized nursing staff on breast-feeding, baby care and other topics, we also offer a full range of pregnancy-related classes for you and your family.

For scheduling and information on fees, class dates and times, call 1-866-CALL-MLH or register online. Preregistration is required for all classes.

Classes

Prepared Childbirth Series

This three-week class is offered to couples expecting their first baby or couples who have never attended childbirth classes. Classes focus on both the physical and emotional aspects of labor and delivery, with emphasis on breathing and relaxation techniques. The instructor will discuss: the natural progression of labor and delivery; coping strategies for labor, including medication and anesthesia options; the role of support person; and the possibility of cesarean birth. A tour of the Maternity Unit will be provided.

Class size is limited, so please register early. It's best to take this program during your seventh month of pregnancy.

Fee: $110 per couple

One-Day Prepared Childbirth

This one-day childbirth preparation class is an alternative for couples who are unable to attend the three-week series due to time constraints or fluctuating schedules. The content is the same as the Prepared Childbirth Series but taught in an accelerated fashion. A tour of the Maternity Unit is included.

Class size is limited so please register early. Lunch is on your own and not included in the registration fee. (Lunch can be purchased in the hospital cafeteria if desired.)

Fee: $110 per couple

Refresher for Prepared Childbirth

The refresher class is for those who have taken a childbirth preparation course during a previous pregnancy. This class offers a review of breathing and relaxation skills, the stages of labor and uses of medications. Sibling adjustment will also be discussed.

Fee: $50 per couple  

Welcoming Baby a Family Affair

This one-session class helps the expectant parents and grandparents prepare for the new baby's arrival. A pediatrician will speak on such topics as selecting a pediatrician, the normal newborn immunization and when to call the pediatrician. You'll learn helpful hints about understanding your newborn and gain important information about car seats, infant safety, safe sleep practices, poison prevention, choke saving maneuvers, choosing baby furniture and much more. Participants will leave class with printed resources for future reference. Please note that this is not an infant care class, as demonstrations on bathing and diapering will be offered during your hospital stay.

Fee: $45/couple $10/grandparent attending with expectant couple

Sibling Preparation Class

This one-session class for children from three to seven years old focuses on the role of the big brother or sister and includes a tour of the nursery and Maternity Unit. Class size is limited. Children must be at least three years old to attend and be accompanied by an adult.

Fee: $30 for one child; $10 per additional child

Prenatal Breast-Feeding Class

During this program you will learn breast-feeding techniques to get you off to a good start, steps for successful breast-feeding, and information for coping with common situations or problems that can occur in the early weeks. The father of the baby or a supportive family member is encouraged to attend. We recommend that you take this class approximately two to three months before delivery.

Fee: $45 per family

Tour of Maternity Unit

A free tour of the Maternity Unit is available. Tours fill up quickly, so please register early.

Please note:

• This tour is already included in the Prepared Childbirth Series and One-Day Prepared Childbirth classes.
• No children please. Due to space and environmental limitations, participation of children is not appropriate. Those who arrive with children for the tour will be asked to reschedule. Tours for children are included in our Sibling Preparation Class.

Fee: Free, registration required

The Happiest Baby

Based on the best selling parenting book and DVD The Happiest Baby on the Block by pediatrician Dr. Harvey Karp, this class provides participants with the necessary tools to calm a crying baby. Long periods of crying are associated with post partum depression, breastfeeding failure and stress in relationships. Come learn about and practice the 5 S’s to soothe crying so your baby – and you- can sleep longer. This is a class where Dads do especially well! Babies up to age 8 weeks are WELCOME to come with parents.

Attendees receive The Happiest Baby DVD, soothing sounds CD, swaddling blanket and tip sheets to make your baby the happiest baby on the block!

Fee: $90 per couple

Registration

Class size is limited and registrations fill quickly, so please register early in your pregnancy. Spaces are reserved in the order registrations are received. Your enrollment confirmation and class information will be sent to you after your registration and payment are received. Preregistration is required for all classes, and class payments must accompany all registrations. To register, call 1-866-CALL-MLH or register online.

Inclement Weather and Class Cancellations

In the case of inclement weather or to confirm class cancellations and changes, please call the MLH Childbirth Class Cancellation Phone Line at 484-565-1462. This number will confirm whether or not class is cancelled, as well as provide information on plans to reschedule. The decision to cancel a class or tour is made by 4:30 p.m. on weeknights and 7:30 a.m. for Saturday classes.