Childbirth Education Classes with OTB

Expectant parents prepare for their baby through various ways- reading books, checking out pregnancy and parenting websites, joining Facebook groups, talking with friends and family. Another way expectant parents may prepare is by attending childbirth education classes, an interactive way to learn about the stages of labor and options available to parents, in terms of coping techniques and medical intervention. 

I'm excited for Olive Tree Birthing's upcoming Childbirth Education series, happening Thursdays, October 29-November 19, 6:30-8:30pm. Having taught with Bloomington Area Birth Services and certified as a Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator, I'm looking forward to teaching a 4-week series in my home, focusing on Lamaze International's Healthy Birth Practices. 

Not only will you be learning ways to support a healthy birth, but you'll also be learning about medical interventions, preparing for life with a baby, and breastfeeding. Learning and practicing ways to cope well and confidently during your baby's birth is helpful as you get ready to meet your baby. Considering using pain medications? You will find the classes helpful because pain medications are often times not available until active labor, so learning ways to relieve discomfort or pain prior to using pain medications may help you feel more comfortable and relaxed. 

You will also build your community as you meet other expectant parents here in Bloomington. Olive Tree Birthing offers a monthly Mothers' Circle, a perfect way to keep in touch with the other expectant women from your class. 

Make sure you call or email to register, as there's a limit of five registrants per class (each registrant may bring a support person). The deadline to register for the October 29th series is October 22nd. Cost for the series is $150, which covers materials, snacks, and support during the series and phone/email support throughout "the fourth trimester".