This class is designed for experienced parents who have taken childbirth preparation classes in the past, and would like to take a refresher course.

 

This is an interactive class, where parents are encouraged to share the story of their prior birth(s), and discuss what they hope will happen again, and what they would like to change this time around. Class discussion focuses on the issues most important to class participants. Topics typically include:

 

·      a refresher of the stages of labor, and the ways in which a typical labor process is different for women who have given birth before than for first time mothers

·      updates on hospital procedures, or learning what to expect at a birth center or home birth

·      re-examination of pain medication options

·      information about how to advocate for your own needs within the medical setting

·      exploration of effective methods for labor support and comfort techniques for coping with labor pain, with time for hands-on practice

·      VBAC – vaginal birth after cesarean

·      breastfeeding and sibling issues

 

This class is applicable to many different situations…

 

·      Sometimes, a prior birth progressed in ways that were different than the parents had expected or hoped for, and they want ideas for how to help this birth better meet their wishes and desires.

·      Sometimes, even if everything was “fine” with the birth, parents are left with a sense that it could have been “better” somehow.

·      Sometimes, it’s been many years since the parents’ last birth, and they want an update on current procedures and recommendations.

·      Sometimes, a couple with a prior cesarean want information to prepare for a VBAC.

·      Sometimes, one member of a couple (mom or dad) has had a child in the past, and took childbirth preparation classes. They feel personally prepared. But the other member of the couple has not been through the birth experience yet, and wants to know more about what to expect. (Our Labor & Birth class may be an even better class for them.)

  

The class is taught by Janelle Durham, Great Starts’ Director of Education. She is a social worker, a doula, a lactation educator, and a childbirth educator (certified with ICEA and Lamaze), with years of experience facilitating a variety of groups. She teaches with a variety of techniques to help students understand and integrate what they learn. We use lecture, visual aids, small group discussions, videos, hands-on demonstrations, practice sessions, handouts, artwork, and/or games.

 

This class is three hours long. Class size is limited to 8 pairs.  Class fee covers mom and 1 support person. We ask that you leave your children with a babysitter to allow focus on class discussion. The class is held at the Great Starts office in the Eastlake neighborhood of Seattle. For schedule, or to register online, click here, or call (206) 789-0883

 

Parents taking this class may also be interested in Sibling Preparation classes for their older child.