The one-day class is a modified version of the series that only focuses on labor and delivery. It is a good option for first-time parents unable to attend the 4-week series, and an excellent refresher course for parents returning to the birth experience or women who will be attempting a VBAC (vaginal birth after cesarean). Compared to the 4-week series, this class involves more direct, instructor-led teaching with fewer group exercises in order to conserve time. Our goal is to help each family become wise healthcare consumers and to partner with their OB providers for a safe birth using as few interventions as possible. Although the class strives to educate patients and their partners toward natural (i.e., unmedicated, intervention-free) childbirth, classes are for prepared childbirth, not just natural childbirth. We recommend taking this class anytime after your 28th week and before your 37th week of pregnancy. Please see the list of upcoming dates below.
Note: Classes do not include a maternity tour. Please visit ynhh.org/events to sign up for a virtual tour.
Topics reviewed:
Physiology and progression of labor and birth
Relaxation and breathing techniques
Coping methods for labor and birth such as hydrotherapy, music, mental focus, and comforting positions
Analgesia and anesthesia options such as nitrous oxide and epidurals
Benefits and risks of medical interventions
The partner's role during labor and birth
Instructors: Asha Evans, Ashley Minihan, or Louise Ward
Location: Empowered Beginnings, 3074 Whitney Avenue, Bldg 2, Suite 211, Hamden, CT. Upcoming Dates: Classes are in person and limited to 10 couples each.
Saturday classes are 9am to 1pm. Thursday classes are 5pm to 9pm.
Sat. October 1, 2022 [FULL; waitlist available]
Thurs. October 20, 2022
Sat. November 5, 2022
Thurs. December 1, 2022
Sat. December 10, 2022
Cost: $100 (per couple)
Full payment at the time of registration is appreciated but not required. A $10 non-refundable deposit is due at the time of registration. This amount will be deducted from the final class fee when the balance is due.
Please note, this class is not included as part of the doula package with Empowered Beginnings. Please refer to the 2-day Childbirth class with Ashley.