FAQ > Childbirth Education Program

When should I take my childbirth classes? We recommend finishing your childbirth classes by approximately 35 weeks, so you have enough time to absorb the information and practice the different coping methods that you are taught. Many participants choose to take Natural Childbirth or HypnoBirthing classes even earlier in their pregnancies in order to have more time to practice relaxation and other natural birthing techniques. Participants in the multiples childbirth class also usually attend classes earlier. We suggest asking your OB or Midwife about any issues specific to your pregnancy and if they think you should end classes earlier than 35 weeks.

What should I bring with me to the childbirth classes? Wear comfortable clothing and bring yourself and a partner or support person (optional).

I’m signed up for an all-day childbirth class. How is lunch handled? Clients will be given a 45-60 minute lunch break. Clients are responsible for their own lunch and can either bring a bag lunch or visit an area restaurant or hospital cafeteria.

I am probably going to need a cesarean. Is there a class for me? Yes! Isis Parenting does offer a separate 3-hour cesarean class for patients who are scheduled for a cesarean and do not need all of the information found in the other childbirth education classes.

I’m thinking of trying a natural birth, but might want an epidural. What’s the difference between the Prepared Childbirth and Natural Childbirth class? At Isis Parenting, we encourage everyone to keep an open mind when it comes to their labor and birth options. Prepared Childbirth is a standard class which covers both natural comfort measures as well as choices in medication and medical intervention. While some hope to labor naturally, many people who sign up for Prepared Childbirth know they definitely want an epidural. This class is offered as a four-week, and 2-week weeknight series or as a one-day, weekend series.

The Natural Childbirth class spends much more time on natural comfort measures (i.e. positions for labor and relaxation techniques) but still covers medication and intervention, just in case. Most of the participants in the Natural Childbirth class will be committed to attempting an unmedicated birth. Natural Childbirth is offered as a six-week, weeknight series or a two-day, weekend series.

All childbirth classes provide you with an excellent overview of late pregnancy, the labor and birth process and all of your options.

Do I need to take a regular childbirth class in addition to the Multiples class? No. The multiples class encompasses a prepared childbirth curriculum which is geared towards families expecting multiples.

What is HypnoBirthing? HypnoBirthing is based on the belief that “severe discomfort does not need to be a natural accompaniment of labor” (Marie Mongan, Founder of The HypnoBirthing Institute). This comprehensive class is designed to fully prepare couples for labor and birth with special emphasis placed on the practice of meditation and breathing techniques to promote deep relaxation during labor. It covers all aspects of preparing for labor, birth and postpartum recovery so you can set the stage for a positive birth experience.

Should I take another CBE class in addition to HypnoBirthing? No, this class is comprehensive.

When should I take this class? As early as 18 – 22 weeks. Earlier is better since this class requires daily practice. You can take the class as late as you want but you will not have as much time to practice the techniques you learn.