Our Childbirth Preparation Classes are available in-person and in a live virtual format.
Through these classes, parents will learn the signs of labor and basic comfort measures and breathing, as well as medical options. The expectant parent and their support person rehearse for labor to help ease anxiety surrounding the birthing experience. This comprehensive course also addresses newborn appearance and postpartum changes and emotions. All instructors are nationally certified childbirth educators. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions.
The in-person class allows more time to focus on the hands-on portion of childbirth education. Participants will learn breathing techniques and comfort strategies like massage, use of heat and cool and positioning for labor and birth. This class will also review use of the birth ball, rebozo and birthing tubs to ease the labor process. The weeknight in-person class also includes a tour of the UPMC Harrisburg Women and Babies Center.
Lamaze offers a 5-week class that further focuses on strategies for natural childbirth following the Lamaze Philosophy of Birth. Lamaze includes all information in the 4-week class plus additional time for practice of breathing, relaxation and comfort measures. All instructors are nationally certified Lamaze childbirth educators.
Register here for in the in-person weeknight Childbirth Class.
Register here for the in-person Saturday Childbirth Class.
Register here for the virtual weeknight Childbirth Class.
Register here for the virtual Saturday Childbirth Class.
Register here for the Lamaze Class.