dulwich hill - website closed, has mobile
royal north shore hospital (apparently open to people who arent' birthing at that hospital)
This 7 week program is designed for first time parents and it is recommended that you commence this course from approximately 25 weeks. This series is designed to be interactive and will provide plenty of opportunity for discussion.
Topics include: stages of labour, when to come to hospital, Active Birth, choices, coping strategies, pain relief, the role of the support person and taking baby home. Sessions include practical exercises to prepare for birth and a tour of the delivery suite. A ‘post-natal reunion’ is offered approximately 6 weeks after birth. The Parenting Workshop complements this program.
Choosing childbirth classes - checklist
How long is the course (in weeks and for each session) and where will it be conducted?
How many people will be in the class?
Is the class content up to date with the current medical policies and the latest research?
Will there be information about the physical and emotional changes during pregnancy?
Will the class prepare me for a natural birth? Caesarean birth?
Will medical and natural forms of pain relief be discussed?
Will the classes give me strategies to help me cope with labour?
Will the classes give my partner strategies to help them cope with seeing and hearing me in labour?
Is relaxation and breathing taught?
Will there be demonstrations on movements and appropriate positions for labour and birth?
Will I come away with practical tools for labour?
Will I be shown pictures and/or videos?
Are communication and negotiation skills discussed?
Will they prepare my partner to be able to help me, particularly if complications arise?
Are unexpected outcomes discussed - such as an assisted delivery (forceps or ventouse), or the baby being sick?
Are the classes all lecture based or are there interactive sessions? Do women and their partners get split into groups to discuss certain aspects relating to them?
Are support people and their roles explored?
Will we explore developing our own birth plan?
Does the information cover aspects of what to expect after the birth including physical and emotional changes, feeding my baby, relationship changes, community support and early parenting? Or do I need to attend separate classes for this?
Will the classes prepare my other child (ren) for the birth if they are going to be involved, or will I have information about siblings relating to the new baby?
Am I able to contact my educator out of class time for specific information and support?
client feedback on differences between calmbirth and transition to parenthood classes
does both calmbirth and another prenatal course