Why do we need childbirth classes?
In short, this is the perfect time to get to know what you don’t know. Whether this is your first baby, and this is all brand new, or this is your third baby, and you are left with questions about your previous experiences, it will benefit you and your birth partner to take classes and learn about what YOU want in your birth experience. Labor and birth are not a pathology, and it’s important to understand physiological birth so that you can make informed decisions about your birth and your care. You deserve a class that will share your excitement for your experience—however you want to give birth—and teach you about all of your options, not just those that make you a “good patient.”
Are Lamaze classes only for those wanting an unmedicated birth?
The Lamaze philosophy of birth stipulates that "birth is normal, natural, and healthy" and that "women have a right to give birth free from routine medical interventions." But Lamaze also educates women so that when interventions are needed, or pain relief medication is desired, women are able to give true informed consent.
Modesto Birth & Beyond, LLC offers TWO options for childbirth in a 3-class series: GROUP classes & PRIVATE/SMALL GROUP classes.
GROUP class series: $250 per couple (snacks included). Space is limited to 6-10 couples.
PRIVATE/SMALL GROUP classes: $350 per couple (snacks included). Please call or text Sheila directly for more information and to schedule them at 209-576-5450.
We hold group classes each month in our 3-week series (8-9 hours) on Thursday evenings from 6-9 pm in Modesto. We do offer a Super Saturday with BOTH birth classes in one day, quarterly (Feb, May, Aug, Nov). Please fill out & submit the Enrollment Form for Group Childbirth Education or inquire using the Contact Form to find out more about the class schedule.
Sheila & Brooke are both Lamaze® Certified Childbirth Educators (LCCE). Corinne is a Certified lactation educator and counselor (CLEC), now in school for her IBCLC!
When you hear the word Lamaze, what do you think? It’s the breathing method, right? Well, actually, although the Lamaze “method” started as just that, a way to cope with childbirth through breathing techniques, Lamaze childbirth classes have adapted with the times! Today’s families need more than just one method, and today’s partners are ready, more than ever before, to participate more fully in the birthing process. Our Lamaze classes are “Not your Mama’s Lamaze” and while breathing is important in labor, there are so many other pain coping techniques that you will learn in class!
At Modesto Birth & Beyond, we feel that attending a quality childbirth education series is an important part of preparing for the most healthy, safe, birth possible. We are partnered with Lamaze International to provide evidence-based childbirth education in group & private class settings.
Attending the right childbirth education class can pave the way for the most healthy pregnancy and birth possible. Our Lamaze classes are designed to help families understand the process of childbirth, and to know the options available to them throughout their birth journey. We strive to build confidence by increasing the knowledge base, providing solid evidenced-based information, and pointing families to resources that will supplement their in-classroom learning. We use a variety of teaching techniques to ensure the most comprehensive childbirth education program possible.
Today’s Lamaze classes are centered around the 6 healthy birth practices for birth! In class we will discuss the nuts and bolts of labor (what happens throughout) as well as what you can do to make it the healthiest, safest, & most satisfying experience possible!
Topics for classes include:
Pregnancy nutrition
6 Healthy Birth Practices of Lamaze
Anatomy + Physiology of Normal Birth
Phases and stages of labor
Balanced Pelvic Floor (to promote optimal fetal positioning)
Laboring positions
Comfort Measures + Relaxation Techniques
partner support
Optimal positions for second stage (“Pushing”)
Creating a birth plan
Breastfeeding information and support
Additionally…
End of pregnancy (physical + emotional changes)
Accessing Evidence-based Information & Care
Pre-labor vs. Labor
Preparing emotionally & physically for labor
Warning Signs
Lowering Fear & Tension in body
Medication Options
Benefits & Risks of Common Interventions/Augmentations
Communication with Care Provider & Medical Team
Decision Making Skills
Birth Plan Options & Counseling
Postpartum Planning & Care
Newborn Care
Solid Resources for Up-to-date Evidence Based Research
Parents Magazine had an article all about what to expect in a Lamaze class.